Overview
- Jim Smith, currently the Atlanta Braves' senior vice president for business strategy, has been officially appointed as the University of Maryland's next athletic director.
- Smith brings extensive experience from professional sports and collegiate athletics, including roles with the Braves, Falcons, Columbus Crew, and Ohio State University.
- Maryland prioritized candidates with proven revenue-generation expertise to address financial sustainability in the evolving college athletics environment.
- Smith replaces Damon Evans, who left for SMU in March, following a two-month search process led by interim AD Colleen Sorem, President Darryll Pines, and a search committee.
- Smith has pledged to focus on enhancing student-athlete health, well-being, and academic success while navigating the challenges of NIL policies and revenue-sharing dynamics.