CEDAR FALLS - For 8 1/2 years, Rick Hartzell was able to solve most of the issues that arose in the University of Northern Iowa athletic department.

However, he couldn't resolve his own differences with the university's top administrators, and today the university announced Hartzell's resignation as director of athletics, effective Jan. 31.

"This ultimately was my decision," said Hartzell, a Klemme native and 1974 UNI graduate who was hired in August, 1999 to replace Chris Ritrievi. "The president (Benjamin Allen) said, 'I don't want you to resign.'

"There was no pressure to go. But from my standpoint, all the signs I was looking for that would make me feel like a valued member of the university's administration were simply not there."

Hartzell has been the architect of unparalleled growth in UNI athletics, from new facilities like the McLeod Center and Human Performance Center to academic excellence and unrivaled competitive achievements.

"Our goal will be to find someone who can build on the foundation Rick has laid," said Tom Schellhardt, UNI's vice president for administration and finance. "UNI athletics is at a much higher level of success than when Rick arrived almost nine years ago, and we want someone to continue that success."

Schellhardt said an interim AD will take over Feb. 1 while the university conducts a nationwide search for a replacement.

Hartzell's resignation sent shock waves through UNI's athletic department. He hired all but two of the head coaches currently on staff.

"When you're at a school like this, your colleagues turn into friends," said Chris Bucknam, UNI's track and field and cross country head coach. "That's what makes this school so great to work at, but that's also what makes it really tough when something like this happens."

Iowa State men's basketball coach Greg McDermott, who led UNI to three NCAA tournaments after being hired by Hartzell in 2001, said the Panthers have two big shoes to fill.

"In my opinion, it's just hard to find someone who is as passionate about that place as Rick was because it means a great deal to him - both the athletic department and the institution as a whole."

Hartzell said it's been a difficult few weeks since he made his decision.

"It hurts me," he said. "I've got two degrees at UNI. I played here (baseball and football). This is the job I always dreamed of.

"To be able to sit in the same chair as Stan Sheriff and Bob Bowlsby (previous UNI ADs) has been extraordinarily important, and at the same time humbling."

Hartzell, 56, said he has no immediate plans.

"I'm considering my future career options, but Jill (his wife), Jackson (his 1-year-old son) and I look forward to making the Cedar Valley our home for the long term."

Contact Doug Newhoff at (319) 291-1467 or doug.newhoff@wcfcourier.com