Barry Brandt became Northwestern’s director of athletics in 2001 after a one-year stint as interim AD in 2000. Under his guidance, Northwestern has maintained its status as one of the premier institutions in the Great Plains Athletic Conference, continuing to garner regional and national recognition for its athletic programs. In 2007, Brandt was named the GPAC Athletic Director of the Year.

In addition to his duties as the college’s athletic director, Brandt sits on the NAIA’s Council of Athletic Administrators and is chairman of NAIA Region III. He also serves as the NAIA national liaison for track and field.

Brandt was Northwestern’s track and field coach for 18 years and the offensive coordinator for the Red Raider football team for 15. During that time, he guided over 50 athletes to track and field All-American status. A 1969 NWC graduate, he holds a master’s degree in physical education from the University of South Dakota.