DEMOREST, Ga. – Piedmont University has announced the hiring of alumnus Gary Halverson as its new Head Cross Country and Assistant Track & Field Coach. Halverson is a 2024 Piedmont graduate and one of the most decorated distance runners in program history.

Halverson returns to Demorest after serving as a graduate assistant for cross country and track & field at Shorter University. He also holds a USA Track & Field Level 1 Coaching Certification.

"We are thrilled to welcome Gary back to Piedmont," said Director of Track & Field / Cross Country Dr. Remel Williams. "His passion for the sport, deep connection to our program and first-hand understanding of our student-athlete experience make him the perfect fit to lead our cross country team and assist with track & field."

During his standout career as a Lion, Halverson served as distance captain in his final season and broke multiple program records, including the 1500m, mile, 3K, 5K, 6K, DMR and 4x800. He captured back-to-back Collegiate Conference of the South (CCS) 1500m titles in 2023 and 2024, earned USTFCCCA All-Region honors in both cross country and track and collected numerous all-conference selections.

In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Halverson demonstrated strong leadership throughout his Piedmont career, guiding daily practice routines, fostering team cohesion and mentoring younger athletes.

"I'm blessed to return to a program that has helped me achieve so much as a college athlete," Halverson said. "I'm excited to continue building on the success of the Piedmont cross country and track program."

He officially began his role in August of 2025.