Wigness comes to UND after having served as the sports information director at the University of Detroit Mercy (2010-12) and assistant athletics director for sports information at the University of Indianapolis (2005-10). A native of Grand Forks, N.D., Wigness previously served as assistant media relations director at UND from 2002-05.

"We are elated to be able to add a media relations professional of Mitch's caliber to our staff," said Jayson Hajdu, UND's Assistant Athletics Director for Media Relations. "He possess a wealth of experience, including a wide array of on-air responsibilities, and his grasp of both traditional and social media fundamentals makes him a perfect fit for our staff. His ties to the community and knowledge of UND Athletics will make for a seamless transition."

While at Detroit, Wigness directed media relations efforts in conjunction with the men's basketball team's 2012 Horizon League Championship and NCAA Division I Tournament appearance. He promoted and distributed a YouTube clip that went viral, garnering more than one million views, and appeared on several national websites. Wigness also helped provide content for Detroit Titan Court Report on Fox Sports Detroit, a monthly coach's television show that was twice nominated and won a 2012 Michigan Emmy. He also coordinated media efforts for "Dick Vitale Court Dedication Night" that featured national media covering the official naming of the Titans' basketball court.

During his stint at Indianapolis, Wigness coordinated the efforts for the Greyhounds' 19 varsity sports and hosted several NCAA Division II regional and national championships. He helped develop the UIndy Television Network, which airs all Greyhound football home games and select basketball doubleheaders. The broadcasts are available to 350,000 homes throughout the state of Indiana and
football is aired live in the metro area. He also served on the media relations committee for the 2010 NCAA DI Men's Basketball Final Four that was held in Indianapolis.

While at UND from 2002 through 2005, Wigness was the primary media relations contact for football, basketball and volleyball, while also hosting "At the Desk With Mitch," a live pre-game show prior to every home men's hockey game.

"When the opportunity arose to come back home, I had to jump at it," Wigness said. "Having grown up in the area and being here during the Division II days, UND has always had a special place in my heart. I'm excited to re-immerse myself in UND Athletics as it builds on its impressive transition to Division I."

Wigness earned his bachelor's degree in telecommunications and film from Eastern Michigan in 2000 and began his career as a sports information assistant at Saginaw Valley State during the 2001-02 season.