JMU Athletics Announces the Hiring of Joe Mitchin as Director of Athletics Communications

HARRISONBURG, Va. – James Madison University Athletics has announced the hiring of Joe Mitchin as the Director of Athletics Communications, bringing more than a decade of experience in athletic communications, social media strategy, public relations and journalism to JMU's staff.

Mitchin joins JMU after serving as Director of Social Strategy at West Virginia University, where he led social media strategy and content publishing efforts for the Mountaineers' athletic platforms, including football and men's basketball. In that role, he oversaw the department's social media presence, managed a team of content creators and student interns, and collaborated with conference officials, national media outlets and student-athletes to enhance brand visibility and engagement.

"We are excited to welcome Joe to the JMU Family," said Associate AD for Fan Engagement and Experience, Melissa Wyant. "His experience leading digital strategy at WVU, combined with his extensive background in athletic communications and storytelling, will be a tremendous asset as we continue to elevate the JMU brand and engage our passionate fan base."

"My family and I are so excited to begin this new chapter in Harrisonburg," Mitchin said. "It is easy to see how special this school and community are, and I can't wait to get started. I greatly look forward to serving our coaches, student-athletes and staff at JMU and hope to make a positive impact on an already tremendous department."

Prior to his role directing social strategy, Mitchin spent more than three years as an Assistant Director of Athletics Communications at West Virginia, serving as the primary media contact for nationally ranked baseball and men's soccer programs while also supporting the Mountaineer football program. He earned national recognition through the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) for excellence in publications and promotional materials.

Mitchin began his athletics communications career as a graduate assistant in West Virginia's athletics communications office, serving as the primary contact for cross country, track & field and swimming & diving while assisting with football, men's basketball and baseball communications efforts.

His professional experience also includes sports journalism positions with The Independent in Massillon, Ohio, and the Times West Virginian in Fairmont, West Virginia.

A native of Canton, Ohio, Mitchin earned both his Master of Science in Sport Management and Bachelor of Science in Journalism from West Virginia University.

Mitchin moves to Harrisonburg with his wife Amy and their daughter Ellie Mae.

Calendar