LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, PA – March 20, 2026 – Lincoln University (PA) Athletics enters a new era of leadership as Josh Dean has been named Director of Athletics and Recreational Services, while Harry Stinson III will transition into the role of Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Executive Director of the Lincoln University Foundation. Both appointments will take effect April 1, 2026.
"Lincoln University is fortunate to have such depth of talent and experience among our staff, and I am proud to see leaders like Josh Dean and Harry Stinson step confidently into these elevated roles," said Dr. Brenda Allen, President of Lincoln University. "Their proven commitment to our mission and their unwavering dedication to our students and community ensure that Lincoln continues to advance with strength and purpose."

Dean to Lead Lincoln Athletics Forward
Josh Dean steps into the role of Director of Athletics following his tenure as Deputy Director of Athletics and former head football coach, bringing a strong understanding of Lincoln's student athlete experience and departmental operations.
"I would like to thank Dr. Allen for this opportunity to serve as Director of Athletics and Recreational Services," said Dean. "Lincoln University is a special place, and I am committed to continuing to build a culture centered on development, well-being, and success for our student-athletes. I'm grateful to Harry Stinson for his mentorship and leadership, and I look forward to continuing to elevate Lincoln Athletics."
Dean's leadership has already made a lasting impact within the department. As head football coach, he helped lay the foundation for the program's growth, highlighted by individual accolades and the development of the Lions' first all-region selection since 2012. His transition into administration has further strengthened internal operations and strategic planning across Lincoln Athletics.
Before arriving at Lincoln, Dean gained valuable coaching experience at both Campbellsville University and Kentucky State University, contributing to defensive success and overall program development. A former professional linebacker, he played in the NFL with the Chicago Bears and internationally in NFL Europe, following a collegiate career at San Diego State University. Dean holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Fort Valley State University and a Master of Sports Science in Sports Management from the United States Sports Academy.

Stinson Leaves Lasting Legacy on Lincoln Athletics
Harry Stinson III will move into a university-wide leadership role after nearly a decade of transformative leadership within Lincoln Athletics.
"I'm truly energized by this new opportunity and the next chapter in my career," said Stinson. "My commitment has always been to help Lincoln University thrive, and today that means working in advancement and with the Lincoln University Foundation to secure our institution's sustainability and future. While it's bittersweet to step away from athletics, I know the program will continue to grow under Josh Dean's leadership."
Since being named Director of Athletics and Recreational Services in 2017, Stinson has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern identity and trajectory of Lincoln Athletics. He led the department's comprehensive rebrand as part of the Reimagining the Legacy strategic plan unveiled in 2018—complete with a new logo, new colors, a new mascot, and the introduction of the University's "Learn. Liberate. Lead." tagline.
Under his leadership, the department experienced significant growth in both resources and infrastructure. Stinson increased the athletics operating budget by 20 percent and expanded the athletics scholarship budget by 30 percent, while also restructuring fundraising efforts and establishing the First Club as the official fundraising arm of Lincoln Athletics.
He also oversaw major facility enhancements across campus, including the addition of indoor batting cages for baseball and softball, renovated locker rooms for men's and women's basketball, and resurfacing of the main and auxiliary courts inside Manuel Rivero Gymnasium. Stinson led the $2.1 million renovation of the turf and track surfaces at the Athletics Stadium, completed in August 2022, and played a key role in securing funding for the $35 million renovation of the primary athletics facility, scheduled for completion in 2027. Additional improvements included updates to the Wellness Center practice facility for the 2025-26 academic year and the opening of the E43 Esports Innovation Lab in May 2025.
Beyond facilities and fundraising, Stinson emphasized the holistic development of Lincoln's student-athletes. He established the Student-Athlete Support Services office, which contributed to a rise in overall student-athlete GPA from 2.76 to 3.02 within its first six semesters. During that time, the department's NCAA Academic Success Rate increased to 86 percent, while the graduation rate improved to 66 percent.

Positioned for Continued Growth
With Dean assuming leadership of the department and Stinson transitioning into a role that will continue to support institutional and athletics advancement, Lincoln University is well positioned to build on its recent success.
The future of Lincoln Athletics remains focused on competitive excellence, student-athlete development, and continued growth across all programs as the Lions move into the next chapter.