Proviso Press Release

MAYWOOD, Ill. — Proviso Township High Schools District 209 announced that Dr. Alexander Brandon has been appointed as the new Athletic Director at Proviso East High School.

Dr. Brandon transitions into the role after serving the past four years as Director of Career and Technical Education and Early College for District 209. He previously spent two years as Assistant Principal at Proviso East, making this a homecoming to familiar territory.

With more than 27 years of experience in education and athletics, Dr. Brandon brings both administrative leadership and a rich background as a former athlete and coach. He has served as a head coach in multiple sports, including football (12 years), track (12 years), basketball (6 years), and baseball (2 years). Beyond the high school level, he has coached travel soccer (6 years), travel softball (8 years), and AAU basketball for both boys and girls (12 years).

Dr. Brandon is also an IHSAA basketball official with more than 30 years of experience and has operated multi-sport camps for six years, helping student-athletes develop foundational skills. His passion for sports extends to his home, where his children are also multi-sport athletes.

“Education and athletics have always been my world, and it’s the way the Brandon kids at home live too,” Dr. Brandon said. “What excites me most is the opportunity to create a culture of excellence in all that we do—one that not only develops athletes on the field but also supports their growth academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. My ultimate goal is to brand Proviso East athletics as a model of success across the state, while giving our student-athletes every opportunity to continue their education and compete at the next level.”

Dr. Brandon said his immediate priorities include strengthening the foundation of the program, from ensuring full rosters and consistent policies to raising academic expectations through team GPA goals. He also emphasized honoring Proviso East’s proud athletic legacy while building momentum for the future.

“As both an educator and coach, I’ve learned the importance of collaboration, listening to the needs of students and families, and building something greater together,” he said. “At Proviso East, I want to establish a clear and recognizable signature for our athletic programs—something that reflects pride, discipline, and achievement.”

As Dr. Brandon transitions into his new role, Dr. Rubi Ortiz, who currently serves as Coordinator for Career and Technical Education and Early College, will be the primary contact for students and families with needs related to that program.

Proviso East Principal Rodney Hull and Superintendent Krish Mohip expressed confidence that Dr. Brandon’s vision and leadership will strengthen the school’s athletic culture and student-athlete success.