University of North Georgia Athletics

Derek Suranie is in his 24th year with the University of North Georgia athletic department and his 16th as a member of the senior administrative leadership team. A 25-year veteran of college athletics, Suranie was elevated to Senior Associate Athletic Director and Chief Operations Officer (COO) in August 2024, following his tenure as Associate Director of Athletics, Internal Operations.
 
In his dual leadership role, Suranie provides strategic oversight of all operational functions within Nighthawk Athletics, including compliance, athletic training, sports performance and human resources. He also serves as the sport administrator for softball, rifle, men’s and women’s soccer and women’s cross country/track & field, playing a key role in the department’s overall success and student-athlete experience.
 
Suranie has been instrumental in the department’s growth and evolution over the past two decades. He was recognized with the university’s North Star Award in 2017 for his exceptional commitment to excellence and service. Before transitioning into administration, he served eight years as UNG’s head athletic trainer and previously held positions as athletic training coordinator and clinical coordinator.

He attended the All Academy Physical Education Symposium at the United States Military Academy at West Point and also participated in the inaugural Summer Transition Program at North Georgia.
 
Originally from Woonsocket, Rhode Island, Suranie earned his bachelor’s degree in sports medicine from Marietta College and his master’s degree in education from UNG. He maintains active professional affiliations with the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA), National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and Division II Athletics Directors Association (D2ADA).
 
Suranie and his wife, Jill, make their home in Cumming and have two daughters, Beth and Emma.

Updated: June 2025