STEUBENVILLE, OHIO—Franciscan University of Steubenville today announced Joseph Wallace as its new director of Community Relations. Wallace has served as head men’s basketball coach for Franciscan University’s NCAA D-III team since 2016 and will continue in that role as well.

As the director of Community Relations, Wallace will work to further and maintain a meaningful relationship between the University and the Ohio Valley community through engagement with community leaders and entrepreneurs. He’ll also represent the University at local events and organize Franciscan University’s Baron Club Dinner and Founders’ Award Dinner to foster a deeper partnership with the community. In addition, Wallace will lead fundraising and planning efforts for community engagement projects, such as the Franciscan Square Ice Skating Rink.

Tim Delaney, executive director of Alumni and Constituent Relations, welcomed Wallace to his department.

“Both Joe and Franciscan University have deep roots here. Joe’s love for his Ohio Valley home and for the mission of Franciscan University and its students make him a great bridge between the community and the University,” Delaney said. “I look forward to working with him as we seek to bring our community and Franciscan even closer together as partners in the ongoing work of Ohio Valley revitalization.”

Born in Steubenville, Ohio, raised in Wheeling, West Virginia, and now living in Steubenville, Wallace said he’s happy to serve in this new capacity while continuing as Franciscan University’s head men’s basketball coach.

“As Baron basketball coach, I have formed strong relationships with many people throughout our campus and local community over the last six years. I look forward to expanding those relationships as director of Community Relations and motivating community members to become involved in the progress of the University and the University to play a more active role in our community,” Wallace said.

Wallace, Franciscan’s all-time winningest coach in the NCAA Division-III era, led the Barons to their first-ever D-III post-season appearances in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference, AMCC, and ECAC Tournaments.

Before he came to Franciscan University, Wallace held roles as assistant men’s basketball coach, director of Basketball Operations, and director of Player Development and Graduate Manager in D-I programs at the University of Tulsa, College of Charleston, and San Jose State University.

A graduate of West Liberty University, Wallace played both basketball and football in college and earned a bachelor’s degree in social science education.

Joe Wallace may be reached in the Community Relations Office at 740-284-5860 or [email protected].