NIU announced that Robert Collins, deputy athletics director, will serve as NIU’s interim athletics director.

Collins assumes the role immediately, as Friday was former NIU Athletics Director Jim Phillips’ last day. Phillips has assumed the position of director of intercollegiate athletics and recreation at Northwestern University.

Collins has worked at NIU for the past 19 years. From 1986-1989, he served as an assistant basketball coach. However, Collins left the bench and moved into administration after four seasons.

As deputy athletics director, Collins is responsible for overseeing the football, men’s basketball and softball programs. The interim athletics director also directs the Student-Athlete Welfare department for the Huskies. This position adds the responsibilities of Athletic Training, Athletic Equipment and Housing, Sports Psychology and Sports Performance to Collins’ other duties.

“I am very pleased that Robert Collins has agreed to serve Northern Illinois and the Athletic Department as interim athletics director,” NIU President John Peters said. “Under Robert, our head coaches and our senior administrative team, I am confident that Huskie athletics will continue to build momentum and grow during this transition.”

Collins has chosen not to pursue the permanent athletic director’s post. However, Collins said he is honored to fill the vacancy for the time being.

“I appreciate the confidence that President Peters has shown in me to lead the Athletic Department during this transitional period,” Collins said. “I am honored to accept this responsibility and hope to continue to build on the success we have enjoyed under the leadership of Jim Phillips over the past four years.”

Peters expects to name a permanent director in the near future.

NIU has a committee comprised of administrators, coaches and student-athletes searching for Phillips’ replacement. The committee is also being assisted by Parker Executive Search. NIU also utilized this Atlanta-based firm when hiring men’s basketball coach Ricardo Patton and football coach Jerry Kill.

“I believe our new athletic director will see a unified, professional staff that is ready to move forward under new leadership,” Collins said.