Piedmont University Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Jim Peeples Resigns

Piedmont University Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Jim Peeples has resigned after 10 seasons at the helm of the department.

Wabash College announced the hiring of Peeples as its next Athletic Director on Wednesday afternoon.

Peeples, who has served Piedmont with distinction, leaves behind a legacy of competitive success and academic achievement.

Under his tenure, the Lions celebrated three overall USA South President's Cups and three overall Collegiate Conference of the South Commissioner's Cups, helping oversee Piedmont's transition to the newly formed conference.

“Jim’s impact on Piedmont Athletics has been profound,” said Piedmont University President Marshall M. Criser, III. “He has been a tireless advocate for our student-athletes, coaches and staff, and his dedication to competitive excellence and academic integrity has elevated our program to new heights.”

During his time leading the athletic department, Piedmont saw consistent success, with 32 postseason team championships between the USA South and CCS.

Since arriving on campus in 2001, Peeples spent his first 14 years on campus as an Assistant or Associate Athletic Director helping to ensure the successful operation of an athletic department consisting of then-15 intercollegiate sports with approximately 300 student-athletes participating during the 2013-14 academic year. 
 
Peeples was named Assistant Athletic Director upon being hired to lead the Piedmont baseball program where he achieved unprecedented success during his time on the diamond. He notched 360 wins during his 15 seasons in the Piedmont dugout while also leading the Lions to a pair of conference tournament championships, four conference regular season titles, and two appearances in the National Christian College Athletic Association College World Series in Celina, Ohio.

Piedmont also garnered unprecedented accolades in the classroom during Peeples' tenure, with 14 CoSIDA/CSC Academic All-America selections.

“Jim has been an incredible leader, mentor, and supporter—not just for our student-athletes but for our entire coaching staff,” Assistant AD/SWA and Head Women's Basketball Coach Jamie Purdy said. “He truly understood the balance between athletics and academics, and he consistently pushed all of us to grow and achieve more. His presence will certainly be missed.”

Under his watch, the Lions saw their first ever individual NCAA National Champion as men's golf's Josh Hebrink took home the title in 2023 in Kentucky.

“I am deeply grateful for my time at Piedmont and for the relationships I’ve built with our tremendous coaches and student-athletes,” Peeples said. “While I’m excited for the opportunity at Wabash, I will always cherish the memories and successes we shared here in Demorest.”

The university will share additional information regarding athletic department leadership in the coming weeks.