Minnesota State athletic director Kevin Buisman is not among the five finalists for the position of director of athletics at the University of Northern Iowa.

“It’s disappointing at one level, but it’s a blessing in another,” Buisman said. “My family and I are very happy here. I’m fortunate to be in a good situation, we’re winding down on another exciting year for the program. I’m looking forward to joining the (Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference) and continuing our success in a new conference.”

The finalists are Terry L. Wanless, director of athletics at Sacramento State; Barbara G. Walker, senior associate athletic director at Wake Forest; Michael P. Waddell, senior associate director of athletics at the University of Cincinnati; Glen Krupica, deputy director of athletics for external affairs at Northern Illinois; and Troy A. Dannen, executive director of the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union.

Buisman said he’s spoken with Division I athletic directors, trying to determine what it would take if he decided to pursue another Division I job.

“I was hoping my ties to the program might catch the (search) committee’s eye,” Buisman said. “It appears that they were looking for Division I experience.”