UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI LAUNCHES SEARCH FOR NEW DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

CORAL GABLES, Fla. — The University of Miami and Director of
Athletics Blake James today mutually agreed to part ways. James’ 17
years at the University—including eight as athletics director—were
marked by class and integrity. He served in several ACC and NCAA
leadership roles and earned national recognition from his peers during
his time with the Hurricanes.

A national search for the University’s next athletics director will
begin immediately.



“It has been an honor to lead Miami athletics and to be a part of such
a world-class institution,” said James. “I am proud of the work that
we have done together, though I know there is still more yet to be
achieved. I want to thank our university leadership, our athletics
staff, our coaches, and especially our incredible student-athletes for
their commitment to excellence and for believing in what the
University of Miami can accomplish. I wish the Canes nothing but the
best and look forward to my next endeavors.”



During James’ tenure as athletics director, which began in 2013, Miami
student-athletes and teams captured five NCAA individual
championships, six ACC team titles, and 71 individual ACC titles. The
Spring 2021 semester marked the 15th consecutive semester in which
Miami student-athletes averaged a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA and the
University’s most recent NCAA Graduation Success Rate was 94 percent.
In addition, Miami has made significant facility enhancements,
including the $40 million Carol Soffer Indoor Practice Facility, the
Jimmy and Kim Klotz Baseball Player Development Center, and the
Schwartz Center for Athletic Excellence.



“I want to thank Blake for his years of service to the University of
Miami,” University of Miami President Julio Frenk said. “Paired with
The U’s storied history in intercollegiate sports, the enhancements
Blake championed—in areas ranging from student-athlete support and
academic achievement to community outreach and facility upgrades—give
us a solid foundation on which to build.”



Jennifer Strawley, the University’s deputy director of athletics, will
serve as interim athletics director during the search period. Strawley
will work closely and collaboratively with the president, as well as
with Rudy Fernandez, in his role as chief of staff to the president,
and Joe Echevarria, in his role as senior advisor to the president.

Jeff Fox

Jeff Fox

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