RANGELY, Colo. — Colorado Northwestern Community College Athletics announces that Zach Stevenson, Athletics Director, will be departing CNCC later this winter to pursue new career opportunites. 

Stevenson's departure marks the close of one of the most impactful eras in CNCC Athletics history — one defined by competitive success, academic accountability, facility growth, and a renewed belief in what Spartan Athletics can be.

A former CNCC student-athlete, assistant baseball coach, and proud alumnus, Stevenson returned to his alma mater following the completion of his master's degree to lead the athletic department he once competed for. What followed was a period of sustained growth and transformation that elevated CNCC Athletics both within the Scenic West Athletic Conference and across the NJCAA landscape.

Transformational Leadership and Historic Success

During Stevenson's tenure, CNCC Athletics experienced unprecedented momentum, including:

• The first nationally ranked team in more than 40 years (Women's Soccer)

• The most successful men's basketball season in program history

• Conference semifinal appearances in baseball and women's soccer

• A National Academic All-American Team recognition for women's soccer

• Strengthened academic standards, resulting in some of the strongest student-athlete academic outcomes in school history

Stevenson was a driving force behind major facility progress, including the design and development of new basketball and soccer facilities, while also prioritizing student-athlete welfare, Title IX equity, and long-term departmental sustainability.

A Culture Shift Rooted in Belief and Accountability

From the moment he arrived, Stevenson challenged long-held perceptions about CNCC Athletics.

"I fundamentally reject the narrative that you can't win at CNCC."

That belief became a cornerstone of the department's culture — one that emphasized competitive excellence, integrity, and accountability. Stevenson championed the philosophy that better students make better athletes, insisting on rigorous classroom standards while empowering coaches and student-athletes to compete fearlessly.

Beyond athletics, Stevenson served the college in numerous leadership roles, including:

• Member of the Academic Leadership Team

• Chair of Extended Cabinet

• Deputy Title IX Coordinator

• A collaborative partner with faculty, staff, and community stakeholders

A Deep and Lasting Connection to CNCC

For Stevenson, CNCC has always been more than a workplace.

"CNCC has been woven into the fabric of my life for nearly two decades," Stevenson shared. "Being a Spartan has never just been a job — it's been part of my identity."

That connection was evident in his daily work — in the way he advocated for student-athletes, supported coaches, and invested in the Rangely community. His leadership style, grounded in vision, resolve, and compassion, left a lasting imprint on the culture of CNCC Athletics.

Looking Ahead

Stevenson's last day on campus will be February 23, 2026, with his final day of employment on February 28, 2026. CNCC will begin the process of identifying the next Athletic Director immediately and is developing an interim transition plan to ensure continuity and stability for its programs and student-athletes.

While Stevenson's next chapter may take him across the country, his legacy in Rangely is secure.

Once a Spartan, always a Spartan.

CNCC Athletics extends its deepest gratitude to Zach Stevenson for his extraordinary service, leadership, and belief in what this department — and this community — could become. We wish him and his family nothing but success as they begin this exciting new chapter.

Go Spartans!