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Sandia Prep is excited to announce Terry Darnell as its new athletic director.

Currently Deputy Superintendent of Operations for Bernalillo Public Schools (BPS), Darnell will replace Willie Owens, who leaves in July to take an athletic director position in St. Louis, Missouri.

Darnell has been in education for 32 years, 18 of them as Athletic Director for BPS. He also coached basketball and several other sports for 30 years at Bernalillo High School. 

Darnell graduated from Bernalillo High School, then earned a BA in education with a minor in physical education from New Mexico Highlands University. He started his career as a P.E. teacher with BPS in 1992. 

He earned his master’s degree and administrative license in 2006 and became the Athletic Director for BPS. In 2021, he served eight months as Interim Superintendent at BPS and then was hired as the Deputy Superintendent of Operations. 

Darnell brings a passion for sports programs to Prep. “I know that extracurricular activities are an important part of enhancing the overall educational experience for students,” he says. “I’m very excited to be part of this wonderful staff and school community. I hope to continue building on the great sports programs that Sandia Prep has to offer.”

Darnell takes the reins from Owens, who has been part of the Sandia Prep community for 32 years. Owens will embark on a new chapter as the Athletic Director at John Burroughs School in St. Louis and will be closer to family.

Owens says Darnell is well known throughout New Mexico for his work ethic. “Terry Darnell will bring dedication, passion, and excitement to the Prep athletic community,” he adds.