There were some questions about what the criteria were for AD of the year.  I sent an e-mail to the SportsBusiness Journal and asked them.  Here's what I got in reply from David Bourne (<dbourne@sportsbusinessjournal.com>):

Here is a general idea of what we look at in determining finalists for our annual Athletic Director of the Year Award. I hope this provides what you need.
 
Athletic Director of the Year
 
Eligibility/Criteria ­ Athletic Directors from colleges and universities in the United States. Individuals must demonstrate excellence, innovation, creativity, outstanding leadership and vision. ADs must: 

• Make a significant impact on collegiate sports
• Provide a vision for their department¹s facility footprint
• Lead the department to improvements that include, but are not limited to:

1. Attendance
2. Ticket sales
3. Brand strength
4. Revenue and profitability
5. Sponsorship
6. Fundraising
7. Graduation rates
8. Student, fan and client services
9. Social responsibility/community relations and outreach programs

Period under Consideration ­ January 1, 2009 ­ February 28, 2010"

I'm not sure I understand what all these things mean, but I'm glad the SportsBusiness people noticed what Dan Guerrera has done for us.