ORU Athletics is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Renae Myles Payne as the new Senior Woman Administrator (SWA) and Senior Associate Athletic Director of Administration. With over 25 years of experience in collegiate athletics, Dr. Myles Payne will bring a wealth of expertise in leadership, human resources, strategic planning, and student-athlete development to ORU.
“We could not be more excited to add Renae to the ORU Athletics family,” Athletic Director Tim Johnson said. “She brings an incredible amount of knowledge and expertise across multiple levels of collegiate athletics. She will be an absolute game-changer for ORU!”
Her career spans several prestigious NCAA Division I and II institutions, where she has demonstrated proven leadership in managing multimillion-dollar budgets, hiring high-performing coaches, and driving institutional success. Her extensive background includes serving as the Director of Athletics at Fort Valley State University, Senior Associate Athletic Director at the University of Miami, and Senior Associate Athletic Director/SWA/COO at Winthrop University, among other high-profile roles.
Her leadership at Fort Valley State University resulted in a 68% increase in fundraising and a remarkable boost in donor engagement. During her tenure at the University of Miami, while serving on the executive leadership team, she successfully led strategic planning and professional development, including the creation of the Cane Culture Council. She also served as sports supervisor, oversaw all team travel, and supervised Miami’s equipment department.
“I am very grateful to Tim and the ORU team for the opportunity to serve in this role. God’s timing is impeccable. I look forward to all we will accomplish together,” said Dr. Renae Myles Payne.
Dr. Myles Payne holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master of Education in Physical Education and Sports Administration from Northwestern State University of Louisiana, and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Public Relations from the University of Southern Mississippi. She is also certified in human resources, with an ongoing commitment to leadership development.
ORU Athletics is excited to welcome Dr. Myles Payne as a dynamic leader with a proven track record of driving institutional success. Her addition reinforces ORU’s commitment to fostering excellence, leadership, and success in every aspect of its athletic programs.
