General | 6/12/2026 12:20:00 PM

STEUBENVILLE, Ohio (pacathletics.org) - Franciscan University has created a new position on the Athletics leadership team and announced JW Beatovich (BA '12: MBA '25) will serve as the Assistant Athletic Director for Communications & Development.

In this role, JW will lead a newly reorganized Communications Department, which will consist of JW as Chief, two Assistant Sports Communications Directors, and a Game Day Manager. He will lead the Athletic Department's efforts to enhance athletic communications, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and support the continued growth of our program in service of forming disciples, developing leaders, and pursuing excellence.

JW currently serves Franciscan in the role as Director of Digital Storytelling in the Marketing & Communications Department, where he has led the video marketing team to produce a wide range of content across multiple channels including for Athletics. He comes with a rare combination of skill, experience, and demonstrated expertise in storytelling and visual communications. Prior to his service in Marketing & Communications, JW spent eight years in the private sector as a freelance Director & Cinematographer, as well as Director of Communications of a parish. His ability to create compelling narratives that drive mission and resonate with target constituencies make JW ideally suited for this new role as the University aggressively advances the "Be Light" strategic campaign forward through Franciscan Athletics.

In addition to the assistant athletic director position, JW will remain Franciscan's Head Swim & Dive Coach. His official start date is August 1 in the new role.

Contributed by Franciscan Athletics