Kostek has been the Assistant Director of Athletics for Annual Fund and Special Events at Drake University since September 2008. Prior to that role, he was the Associate Director of Athletics for External Operations and Relays from February 2005-September 2008 and the Drake Relays Director and Assistant Director of Athletics from September 2000-February 2005 at Drake. During his time with the University, Kostek played a key role in directing special events, such as the NCAA Track and Field Championships and the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships. He also supervised and supported the Drake Relays Director, among other additional duties.
Before moving to Des Moines in 2000, Kostek was Track and Field Coordinator at the University of Nebraska from 1980-2000.
"It's clear that Mark's no stranger to the world of sports," said GDMCVB President and CEO Greg Edwards. "He has strong relationships with many track and field experts throughout the country, which will no doubt assist the GDMCVB and DMASC in maintaining and developing sports-related bookings in Greater Des Moines. His devotion to the city and the sports arena, in particular, will serve our community very well."
"We're happy that Mark will still be active in the Des Moines sports scene. He has been a huge asset to the Drake Athletics program," said Drake University Athletic Director Sandy Hatfield Clubb. "We work closely with the DMASC and having Mark in his new role will continue to enhance our collective ability to attract major sporting events to the Greater Des Moines area."
Outside of work, Kostek was assigned as a technical official to the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2004 and 2008, and is one of only 12 U.S. National Technical Officials. He has also acted as a referee at the NCAA Championships from 2001-2006 and 2009-2010, among many other track and field-related activities and distinctions.
Kostek has a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Drake University and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from the University of Nebraska.
Kostek replaces Al Lorenzen, who left the DMASC to head up Wildwood Hills Ranch in early February.