Stephen Ponder Position: Senior Associate Athletics Director Institution: Arizona State University

Stephen Ponder is in his forth year as Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development/Executive Director of the Sun Devil Club. In this role, Ponder is responsible for all fundraising for Arizona State University Athletics. In 2006, Ponder oversaw the re-branding of the annual fund from the Sun Angel Foundation to the Sun Devil Club; and reorganized the staff to focus on donor visits rather than event fundraising. The results netted record levels in membership and dollar raised. The donor base increased from 7,391 in 2006 to 9,489 in 2007 and total fundraising increased from $9,227,390 in 2006 to $14,640,844 in 2007. Additionally, $27.4 million has been committed since fall 2006 for a basketball practice facility and indoor practice facility.

Ponder came to ASU from North Carolina State University where he spent 16 years as a fundraiser for the Wolfpack Club. Beginning in 1991 as an Assistant Director of the Wolfpack Club and ascending in 2005 to Associate Athletic Director, Ponder was an integral part of an accomplished staff that enjoyed exponential growth. During this time, more than $121 million in pledges and contributions were made for capital campaigns. Over $20 million was raised for endowments. Annual giving increased from $3.1 million to $9.5 million and membership increased from 8,100 to 18,575.

A native of Marshall, North Carolina, Ponder earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from North Carolina State University. He earned a master's degree in sports management from Georgia Southern University.

Stephen and wife, Sloane have two sons, Stetson and Stratton. The Ponders reside in Chandler, Arizona. He currently serves on the Executive Committee for the National Association of Athletic Development Directors (NAADD).