Washburn University Athletics

Budke is in his second year as the Assistant Athletic Director for External Relations and Fan Experience at Washburn University. He leads marketing, promotions, fan engagement, and game day experience efforts, while also supporting corporate sponsorship initiatives and collaborating with internal departments to maximize visibility and engagement for Washburn Athletics. His work focuses on building and sustaining corporate and community partnerships that support Washburn Athletics, while also enhancing the game-day atmosphere and increasing attendance across all sports.

Prior to joining Washburn in July 2024, Budke served as a graduate assistant at the University of Central Missouri.

Budke earned his master’s degree in Sports Management from Central Missouri in 2024 and his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a marketing emphasis from Kansas State University in 2021. He is originally from Beloit, Kansas.

He is the 2024 Washburn Athletics "Noon Ball" MVP.