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Natasha Oakes

A portrait of a smiling woman wearing a black suite

Professional Highlights

  • Leadership in Collegiate Athletics: Serves as Deputy Athletics Director and Senior Woman Administrator (SWA) at West Virginia University, overseeing governance, compliance, and DEI initiatives within WVU Athletics.
  • Influence in Athletic Governance: Represents WVU on Big 12 and NCAA governance groups, contributing to policy and decision-making at the conference and national levels.
  • Commitment to Professional Development: A graduate of the Dr. Charles Whitcomb Leadership Institute.

Biographical Sketch

Natasha Oakes joined the College of Applied Human Sciences Visiting Committee in 2024. Oakes serves as the Deputy Athletics Director and Senior Woman Administrator (SWA) at West Virginia University, overseeing governance, compliance, and DEI initiatives within WVU Athletics. Her portfolio includes direct sport oversight and representation on Big 12 and NCAA governance groups. 

Previously, Oakes held senior roles at the University of North Texas and Missouri Western State University, specializing in compliance and internal operations. A graduate of the Dr. Charles Whitcomb Leadership Institute, Oakes holds a master’s in Sport and Fitness Management from Missouri Western State University and a bachelor’s in Business from Emporia State University.