Colleen Sorem was named interim athletics director.
Maryland athletics director Damon Evans announced Friday that he will be leaving the university to accept the same position at Southern Methodist University (SMU).
Evans spent a decade at Maryland, with the last seven years as the Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics. During his tenure, Maryland’s athletic programs claimed 49 Big Ten conference championships and seven national titles. He led the development of new sports facilities for student-athletes, including Jones-Hill House.
“While I relish the opportunity ahead, this decision was among the most difficult in my professional career,” Evans said in a release. “I am fiercely proud of what we have accomplished in my 10 years here, particularly the last seven as the [athletics director].”
Additionally, Evans helped create the Maryland Club and played a role in the planning of the Barry Gossett Basketball Performance Center, which is set to open this summer.
In the wake of Evans’ departure, university president Darryl Pines appointed Colleen Sorem as the interim athletics director. Sorem has been Evans’ deputy director since 2018, and added the title of chief operating officer in 2023.
“For years, she has been my trusted deputy, and a close friend,” Evans said of Sorem. “Simply put, she is one of the most skilled athletic administrators in the nation. Maryland is fortunate to have such a tremendous individual to continue our great work. Our department is in great hands.”
Evans’ official announcement comes just one day after Maryland men’s basketball coach Kevin Willard revealed Evans’ decision to move to SMU. Whether it be Sorem or an outside hire, the new athletics director will immediately be met with Willard’s contract negotiations.