West Virginia University Senior Associate Director of Athletics Russ Sharp died Wednesday after a three-year battle with prostate cancer.
He was 52 years old.
"Russ was one of the finest human beings that I have ever been associated with," said WVU Athletic Director Ed Pastilong in a release. "He was one of the best athletic administrators in the country, and West Virginia University has been extremely fortunate that he was a part of our family.
"His contribution to the financial management, facility improvements and overall departmental operations has benefitted this department tremendously. His legacy will live on every day because of his devotion to improving our athletic facilities for our student-athletes, fans and employees."
The 1983 graduate of the University of West Georgia was especially known for his improvement to the Mountaineers' athletic facilities. He played a major role in the $19 million basketball practice facility, which is expected to be completed in 2011.
He was diagnosed with cancer in 2007.
"Russ Sharp was a hidden gem for West Virginia University," said Deputy Director of Athletics Mike Parsons. "He accomplished so much during his years here, always making WVU a stronger and better athletic program. He always did things the right way."
Sharp first came to West Virginia in 1999 when he was hired as the assistant athletic director.
He was promoted to associate athletic director in 2002 before becoming the school's associate athletic director for administration and finance. He was responsible for business operations, facilities and game management, and human resources.
He also was in charge of athletic training, strength and conditioning, and equipment operations.
"He was as fine an individual as you'll ever come across – loyal, honest, dedicated to the University, a great friend and colleague," said WVU President James P. Clements. "It is rare to find the combination of personal and professional excellence; Russ had both in abundance."
After serving as assistant athletic director for business and internal affairs at Arkansas State for four years, Sharp became the athletic director at Centenary College for five years.
He was also on a number of NCAA and conference committees, and was a 23-year member of the College Athletic Business Management Association where he was named the CABMA Manager of the Year in 2008.
"The staff of the athletic department is like family. Russ was part of the fiber of that family," Parsons said. "His lasting legacy will be seen every day. As we walk through the stadium, the Coliseum or any of our outstanding athletic facilities, you will see a piece of Russ' labor in each one."
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