Bell to retire as Director of Athletics
INDIANOLA, Iowa -- Simpson College Director of Athletics Marty Bell has announced his decision to retire from his position, effective Dec. 31, 2025. After dedicating 40 years of his professional life to intercollegiate athletics achieving success as a coach and as an administrator, Bell says the timing to retire from this role feels right. At this stage, Bell is looking forward to exploring other paths that may be a fit for his talents.
"I am so thankful for the opportunities Simpson College has given me these last five years," said Bell. "It has truly been a privilege to work with such an impressive team of coaches and professional staff. What we have accomplished together is remarkable — I am so proud of everyone in our athletics family. Watching our student-athletes excel in competition as they also distinguish themselves as leaders in academic pursuits has been extremely gratifying. With the great people we have here, Simpson athletics is well positioned to achieve long-term success."
Under Bell's leadership, Simpson has benefited from strategic program growth and considerable facilities upgrades. The addition of women's and men's gymnastics, women's wrestling and men's volleyball as varsity programs has created more opportunities for student-athletes while helping to grow and sustain enrollment. Recent competition success includes a trip to the NCAA Division III playoffs for softball in 2025, back-to-back NCAA post season appearances for women's soccer in 2023 and 2024, and an individual national championship in the 10,000 meters for Spencer Moon '24 at the NCAA III Championship meet in 2024.
At the same time, Bell has also served as the driving force for several significant facility upgrades including new turf and track at Buxton Stadium, new infield turf for softball and baseball, refreshed tennis courts and a new gymnastics facility set to open in January. In addition, Bell championed numerous enhancements in Cowles Fieldhouse including a new wood playing court, bleacher upgrades, new offices, locker room renovations and a concession stand.
"Marty elevated Storm athletics and the overall experience for our student-athletes," said Interim President Sue Stuebner. "Thanks to his vast expertise and his vision, Marty made meaningful improvements to the athletics department that will have a lasting impact. Marty's leadership, tireless pursuit of excellence, and his ability to build meaningful relationships have resulted in a strong foundation and great momentum for the future of Simpson athletics."
A national search for Simpson's next director of athletics will begin immediately. A plan is being developed to cover the athletic director's responsibilities between Jan. 1 and the arrival of the new hire.
