EAST SYRACUSE — Dr. Tamela Ray will serve as the interim executive director of Section III Athletics.

“Dr. Ray will serve the 105-member school districts while the Board of Directors begins a search for a new executive director following the upcoming retirement of current Executive Director John Rathbun,” Section III announced Monday afternoon.

Ray retired as the athletic director at Auburn Schools at the end of July, 2021. She taught in the district for a decade before becoming athletic director in 1996.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I’d like to congratulate Dr. Ray and thank her for her willingness to support our member schools as our interim leader,” Section III President Michael Clonan said following the appointment.

Section III Past President Joseph DeBarbieri said, “Dr. Ray brings tremendous skills, experience, as well as a strong knowledge and understanding of our organization. Her ability to establish positive relationships with Athletic Directors, coaches, and district administrators will serve Section III very well as she leads this organization.”

Ray will begin her interim role on Oct. 1, 2022, and will spend time on a part-time basis working alongside Rathbun through the date of his retirement on Dec. 31.

“I am very fortunate to continue supporting this amazing athletic organization,” said Ray. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve Section III in this capacity, and I look forward to working with all of Section III’s athletic administrators, coaches, and student athletes.”