MALIBU, Calif. – Pepperdine Athletics recognized four staff members with promotions, Director of Athletics Tanner Gardner announced today.
 
Staff Promotions
Nick Kurtz — Assistant AD for Facilities & Events
Erin Carroll — Director of Academic Support & Student-Athlete Development
Stewart Gonzalez — Director of Sports Performance
Matt Rosato — Director of Marketing & Events
 
"These promotions are a reflection of the excellence, dedication, and impact Erin, Stewart, Nick, and Matt bring to Pepperdine Athletics," said Gardner. "Each of them has gone above and beyond in serving our student-athletes, advancing our mission, and elevating the experience for Waves fans and the Pepperdine community. I'm excited to see the continued leadership and vision they will bring to their new roles."
 
Nick Kurtz originally joined Pepperdine Athletics in the spring of 2022 as Director of Facilities & Events. In his role, Kurtz manages the daily operations of Pepperdine's athletic facilities and leads the planning, preparation, and execution of home events across all sports. His leadership ensures that Waves student-athletes compete in safe, well-maintained facilities and that fans, families, and the broader community enjoy a first-class game-day experience. Kurtz also oversees capital projects and collaborates closely with campus partners to enhance the department's infrastructure.
 
Erin Carroll '09, a Pepperdine women's soccer alum, returned to Malibu and Pepperdine Athletics in August 2020 as Academic Support Coordinator. Carroll's Building Waves professional development program has helped connect current Waves with alumni dating back as far as the Class of 1979, as the program helps student-athletes clarify their career interests, establish connections with alumni and industry professionals, and build confidence in their transferable skills. In 2024–25, the program engaged over 80 student-athletes and at the conclusion of the academic year, the Pepperdine Athletics recorded its highest-ever department-wide GPA.
 
Stewart Gonzalez is in his 15th year at Pepperdine Athletics, having previously served as Associate Director of Sports Performance. Working primarily with the baseball program, Gonzalez oversees and coaches strength and conditioning for the Waves. He has helped Pepperdine baseball capture three WCC titles during his tenure.
 
Matt Rosato '21, returned to Pepperdine Athletics in August 2022 as the Marketing and Events Manager. Rosato directs the department's marketing, and fan engagement efforts, working to elevate the Waves' in-venue experience at athletic events. He began working in the athletics department at Pepperdine as an undergraduate student, assisting the marketing and communications teams with game production and corporate sponsorships. 
 
ABOUT PEPPERDINE ATHLETICS
Pepperdine University boasts one of the most successful athletic programs in the country for a school of its size. The Waves have claimed 10 NCAA Division I team championships and 26 team or individual national championships in their history. Located in scenic Malibu, California, the university overlooks a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. Pepperdine is a Christian university committed to the highest standards of academic excellence and Christian values, where students are strengthened for lives of purpose, service, and leadership.
 
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