Wayne State University Athletics

Wayne State University Director of Athletics Rob Fournier announced the hiring of Linda Long as the director of development for the WSU athletic department on Sept. 20, 2004. [quote]Linda has a unique blend of experience that will benefit the athletic department in a variety of ways,[quote] stated Fournier. [quote]Her background in corporate and amateur athletics, and personal relationships developed through an energetic and engaging personal style, will further enhance our efforts to improve the quality of life for WSU student-athletes.[quote] Long joins the WSU staff after serving the past nine years with the athletic company Puma. Long[apos]s duties included designing apparel and footwear along with overseeing the marketing and promotional career for pro tennis player Serena Williams. Williams and Long founded a fundraiser and foundation called [quote]Players That Care[quote] to benefit ovarian cancer research. The Sylvania, Ohio, native has played tennis competitively and worked in the sports industry for over 20 years. She was the 87th employee of Nike, Inc. and assisted on developing Nike[apos]s collegiate sponsorships.