SMU Athletic director Rick Hart Steps Down After 13 Years
DALLAS — Rick Hart is stepping down as SMU’s athletic director after 13 years, the university announced Friday.Hart, who led the Mustangs through their historic move to the Atlantic coast conference last year, said it was “time for a new challenge” and a “new voice” to lead the program.
Hart will remain in his position until a successor is hired. His departure coincides with the upcoming transition of SMU president R. Gerald Turner, who announced his retirement in august after 30 years.jay hartzell will assume the presidency on June 1, following his tenure as president of the University of Texas.
“During his 13 years at SMU, Rick has led our Department of Athletics with character, class, and integrity, and he has made this decision the same way,” said Turner. “With my upcoming transition to President Emeritus and the arrival of President-elect Jay Hartzell,rick believes that now is a good time for both him and SMU to move forward.”
Hart joined SMU in 2012 after serving as athletic director at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga for six years. During his tenure, SMU invested over $250 million in athletic facilities, including renovations to Moody Coliseum and the opening of a new end zone complex during the most recent football season.
**Beyond facility upgrades, what othre initiatives or programs did Rick Hart implement during his tenure that contributed to the growth and advancement of SMU Athletics?**
SMU Athletic director Rick Hart Steps down After 13 Years
DALLAS — Rick Hart is stepping down as SMU’s athletic director after 13 years, the university announced Friday.Hart, who led the Mustangs through thier historic move to the Atlantic coast conference last year, said it was “time for a new challenge” and a “new voice” to lead the program.
Hart will remain in his position until a successor is hired. His departure coincides with the upcoming transition of SMU president R. Gerald Turner,who announced his retirement in august after 30 years.jay hartzell will assume the presidency on June 1, following his tenure as president of the University of Texas.
“During his 13 years at SMU,Rick has led our Department of Athletics with character,class,and integrity,and he has made this decision the same way,” said Turner. “With my upcoming transition to President Emeritus and the arrival of President-elect jay Hartzell,rick believes that now is a good time for both him and SMU to move forward.”
Hart joined SMU in 2012 after serving as athletic director at the University of Tennessee-chattanooga for six years. During his tenure, SMU invested over $250 million in athletic facilities, including renovations to Moody Coliseum and the opening of a new end zone complex during the most recent football season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is rick Hart stepping down?
Hart says it’s time for a “new challenge” and a “new voice” to lead the SMU athletic program. he believes this is a natural transition point, especially with the upcoming changes in SMU leadership with President R. Gerald Turner’s retirement and Jay Hartzell taking over as president.
What are some of Rick Hart’s accomplishments as SMU athletic director?
Hart led the Mustangs through their highly accomplished move to the American Athletic Conference last year. During his tenure, SMU invested over $250 million in athletic facilities, including renovations to Moody Coliseum and a new end zone complex for Gerald J. Ford Stadium.
When will Hart officially step down?
Hart will remain in his position until a successor is hired.
Rick Hart’s legacy at SMU will undoubtedly be one of growth and progress.
