Bio
Gerald Cadogan serves as Director of Athletics at Shawnee State University, where he provides strategic leadership for the department during a pivotal period of institutional growth. In this role, he is guiding the University’s efforts toward a transition to NCAA Division II membership while overseeing the development and implementation of a football program.
Cadogan brings a comprehensive background in intercollegiate athletics, combining administrative leadership, coaching experience, and a distinguished playing career. His leadership philosophy emphasizes academic achievement, competitive excellence, compliance, and a commitment to the holistic development of student-athletes.
Prior to his appointment as Director of Athletics, Cadogan served as head coach of the Shawnee State men’s and women’s swimming programs, where he played an integral role in establishing the program and guiding it through its formative years. Under his leadership, Shawnee State produced its first Mid-South Conference honorees and NAIA All-American.
In addition to his collegiate experience, Cadogan has an extensive background in interscholastic athletics. At Portsmouth High School, he served in multiple capacities, including head coach of boys’ and girls’ swimming, head coach of men’s track and field, and assistant football coach.  He has served as head coach of the boys and girls swimming programs at Portsmouth High School, head coach of the men’s track team, and an assistant football coach. During his tenure, he led the swimming program to five Scioto County Championships, including three consecutive titles, while significantly growing participation and establishing a junior high program.
A 2004 graduate of Portsmouth High School, Cadogan was a multi-sport standout, earning All-Ohio honors in football and helping lead the Trojans to a state semifinal appearance. He went on to play at Penn State, where he became a two-year starting offensive tackle, earned multiple Academic All-Big Ten honors, and was a two-time Academic All-American while graduating with honors.
Cadogan is a former student-athlete at Penn State University, where he was a two-year starting offensive tackle and earned multiple Academic All-Big Ten selections, as well as Academic All-America honors. He graduated with honors, earning degrees in psychology and rehabilitation services. Following his collegiate career, Cadogan spent time with several NFL organizations, including the Cincinnati Bengals, Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, Philadelphia Eagles, and San Diego Chargers, before continuing professionally in the Canadian Football League. He was a member of the Toronto Argonauts’ Grey Cup championship team in 2012.
He holds a master’s degree in education from Shawnee State University and has demonstrated a sustained commitment to leadership, mentorship, and community engagement throughout his career.
Under Cadogan’s direction, Shawnee State Athletics is positioned to advance its mission through strategic growth, enhanced competitiveness, and a strong commitment to institutional and NCAA standards.
