Chancellor Announces Leadership Change in Kansas Athletics
Chancellor
"This morning I met with Sheahon and relieved him of his duties," Girod said. "Sheahon has been a loyal Jayhawk, and Kansas Athletics has improved in many ways under his leadership. But the department continues to face a number of challenges, and progress in key areas has been elusive. To achieve the level of success we need and expect, a change in leadership is necessary."
Zenger's employment agreement is terminated without cause. Per that agreement, he will be paid two years of his salary of
"I have spoken with Sean about my expectations for the coming months," Girod said. "I am confident he will provide sound leadership and stability during this transition."
The chancellor has already begun the process of identifying a permanent athletics director. To lead this process, Girod has enlisted
"Drue is one of our most respected and accomplished alumni, and he has a proven record of identifying talented leaders," Girod said. "With his assistance, I am confident we will bring terrific new leadership to Kansas Athletics."
In a message to the KU community, the chancellor provided context for his decision.
"Since becoming chancellor, I have spent countless hours with higher education peers and Jayhawks to hear their perspective on KU," he wrote. "A common thread in these conversations is that, as a major public university with national aspirations, we must continue to strive for excellence in all areas -- including athletics. As I have said many times, a successful athletics department is inextricably linked to our mission as a flagship research university.
"The other common thread in these conversations is optimism for Kansas Athletics," he wrote. "Across the country, we are recognized as having elite programs, a proud tradition and a loyal fan base. These assets will serve us well as we identify a new athletics director."
The chancellor also discussed KU football in his campus message.
"I spoke with
Zenger shared the following statement regarding today's announcement: "It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the
Girod pointed to a number of successes under Zenger's leadership, including record-high student-athlete GPAs, a national championship for the women's outdoor track & field team, seven individual national championships, and the construction of
"Most importantly, Sheahon prioritized our student-athletes and represented KU with integrity and class," Girod said. "We thank him for his service, and we wish him the best."
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