Dr. Wayne Rasmussen brings a wealth of expertise and a distinguished background to TMU. He combines impressive academic achievements with extensive hands-on experience in sports management and administration. His career spans collegiate and professional athletics, including key leadership roles with the LA Galaxy and the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team.

Before joining TMU, Dr. Rasmussen spent five successful years at Columbia International University in South Carolina, where he founded and directed the undergraduate Sport Management program, leaving a lasting legacy of innovation and excellence.

His career began at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, where he served as an assistant soccer coach. From there, he advanced to head coach at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. Dr. Rasmussen’s trajectory then took him to the administrative side of sports, where he contributed significantly to the U.S. Men’s National and Olympic soccer teams. Notably, he played a pivotal role with three Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs, including serving as the LA Galaxy’s director of operations and player development during their inaugural season in 1996.

Beyond professional soccer, Dr. Rasmussen has held various leadership roles in athletics, including serving as the athletic director at Eastern University in Pennsylvania. He has also organized cycling tours and wilderness adventure trips, showcasing his versatility and passion for sports and outdoor pursuits.

Dr. Rasmussen’s academic foundation is equally impressive. He holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, a master’s degree in physical education from SMU, and a Doctor of Education in sport administration and management from Temple University in Philadelphia.

Dr. Rasmussen and his wife, Debby, are parents of three grown children, reflecting a life dedicated to family and professional excellence.