Columbia University Athletics

Columbia University Campbell Family Director of Intercollegiate Athletics & Physical Education Peter Pilling named Associate Athletics Director Erich Ely the Director of Athletics Development in October of 2018. In his new role, Ely's responsibilities will focus on overseeing the University's athletic development staff and its resources.
 
"With Erich's expertise and familiarity with Columbia Athletics, we feel that he is well-equipped to lead our athletics development initiatives," Pilling said. "Erich is someone who knows our system and understands the breadth of engagement and programming Athletics offers to constituents of its 31 varsity sports. He has also done an outstanding job with capital projects through the years."
 
"Erich has proven he is deeply invested in Columbia Athletics," Senior Executive Director of Development, Katie Benvenuto '03CCC (Women's Basketball) noted. "He's been a constant fixture at our contests, both home and away, and has become a trusted contact for coaches, alumni and parents. On top of his deep understanding of the University, his genuine love of Columbia and our sports programs will make him an effective fundraiser. He will also be an exceptional leader and manager of the Development team."
 
The Athletics Development team is comprised of Maggie Johnson '11CC (Softball), Associate Director of Athletics Development, Victor Spinelli, Assistant Director, Development and Stewardship, Liam Boylan-Pett '08CC (Track & Field/Cross Country), Leadership Gifts Officer, and Emily Maury '18CC, Development Assistant, along with Benvenuto and Corey Aronstam, Deputy Vice President for Development, who oversee the athletics development operation.
 
Ely has worked in the Columbia Department of Intercollegiate Athletics for the last 14 years. For the last eight years, he served as Columbia's Associate Athletics Director of Facilities Operations, Athletic Events and Capital Projects. In this position, he oversaw all facilities operations within the Dodge Physical Fitness Center as well as at Baker Athletics Complex. Ely was named Associate Athletics Director for Facilities Operations in July 2010 after being promoted to Director of Facilities Operations in 2008. He had previously served as an assistant director of facilities beginning in 2004.
 
A native of Connecticut, Ely earned his bachelor's degree in communications from Tulane in 2003.