Budke enters his third year as the Assistant Athletic Director for External Relations and Fan Experience at Washburn University. He oversees marketing, promotions, fan engagement and game-day experience efforts for Washburn’s 16 athletic programs, while also overseeing corporate partnerships, community engagement and special events.
Since joining Washburn in July 2024, Budke has helped create and expand promotional initiatives, theme games and community outreach programs designed to increase attendance and strengthen the connection between Washburn Athletics, its fans and the Topeka community. He works closely with coaches, athletics staff, campus departments and corporate partners to maximize the visibility of Washburn Athletics and provide an engaging experience for fans at Ichabod events.
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, and is the "funcle" to his two nephews, Asa and Albie.
