To say it has been a tumultuous year and a half for Washington University’s athletic department would be an understatement. From Josh Whitman’s surprise departure for the University of Illinois to events surrounding both former Dean of Students and interim Athletic Director Justin Carroll and the men’s soccer team, the administrative offices in the Athletic Center have certainly had a lot to deal with. Because of this, the University’s announcement of Anthony J. Azama as the new athletic director is especially important—and it presents an opportunity for stability in the department.

Washington University boasts some of the most historically successful Division III teams in America, but for these student-athletes to continue to thrive, some continuity from above needs to exist. More consistent leadership and a steady hand will help our teams continue to not just play, but compete on the national level. After over a year of turnover and chaos in the athletic administration, the Student Life editorial board believes it is vital for Azama to provide consistency and normalcy to the athletic department, and he can only do that by remaining at Wash. U. for the long haul.

To put it simply, what the University needs is not just a capable administrator, but a capable administrator who will remain committed to our department for years to come. There is the potential for Azama to make significant accomplishments, but he will only be able to do this if he is able to follow through on a long-term vision. At his last job, Amaza helped Columbia University generate its highest-ever revenue from ticket sales. Washington University, despite the strength of its teams, has long struggled to draw crowds. If Azama can work the same magic on Francis Field, he will surely boost the visability of Washington University’s sports teams and create a larger campus community that cares more about the University’s impressive athletic feats. Bringing more students into the stands, however, is a multi-year project that will only be successful if Azama can give it the requisite amout of time.

Azama will be the fourth person to fill the role of athletic director since February 2016. He is well-qualified for the job, and there is every reason to be optimistic for his prospects to succeed in the position. At the moment, however, it is most important that he remain committed to the department’s long-term stability. After the whirlwind of the past year, Washington University’s athletic community needs someone to steady the ship so that the program can continue its success.