Bart Osborne returns to Union

Maisie Nelson • April 17, 2025

A well-known name in Union Commonwealth University athletics is making a welcome return. Bart Osborne has rejoined the university as Associate Athletic Director for Development and Fundraising.

Osborne, who led Union’s baseball program for 17 seasons before stepping down in January 2021, now brings his extensive experience in both athletics and business into a new leadership role within Bulldog Athletics.

In this position, Osborne will oversee all athletic fundraising efforts, including team-specific fundraising, corporate sponsorship opportunities, and athletic facility management. He will also take the lead on special projects and serve as a mentor for young coaches within the department.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Bart back to the Bulldog family in this new capacity,” said Clay Butler, Vice President for Athletics. “His deep understanding of Union, combined with his leadership, coaching experience, and success in the private sector, make him uniquely qualified to drive new opportunities for our athletic programs. Bart’s passion for Union and our student-athletes is unmatched, and we’re excited about the energy he brings to this role.”

During his time as head baseball coach, Osborne helped elevate the program to national prominence. Under his leadership, Union baseball achieved:

Six 40-plus win seasons
12 30-plus win seasons
Two Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) regular-season championships
One AAC Tournament championship
Two NAIA Region XII championships
One NAIA South Central Super Regional title
One NAIA World Series appearance, finishing fifth nationally
Four NAIA Opening Round appearances

Since his time at Union, Osborne has been working in sales at Barrier Roofs, a company owned by Union alumnus and former Bulldog baseball player Justin Barrier ’06.

Now, he returns to Union ready to combine his passion for athletics and proven track record to support the growth and future of Bulldog Athletics.

For more information about Union Commonwealth University Athletics, visit www.gounionbulldogs.com.

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