The University of Maryland has named Damon Evans its new athletic director, a position he has held in a temporary capacity since Kevin Anderson went on a six-month sabbatical in October, the university announced Monday.
Evans took over Anderson’s responsibilities when the sabbatical began and became acting athletic director in April, following Anderson’s resignation.
Evans came to Maryland in 2014 and has served as chief financial officer and as executive director of athletics, among other positions.
“It is a great honor to be chosen to lead at the University of Maryland,” Evans said in a press release. “Since the day I arrived, I have been inspired by the student-athletes, coaches and support team that strive for success in Maryland athletics, and I look forward to many successes ahead in our Big Ten era.”
Evans’ introductory press conference is scheduled for Tuesday. He will officially take over as athletic director July 2.
“Throughout his tenure here, Damon has demonstrated visionary, transparent, compassionate and ethical leadership,” said University President Wallace Loh. “The candidates invited for interviews had impressive credentials and accomplishments. In the end, a senior leadership search is not only about capabilities. It is also about institutional fit and interpersonal trust and chemistry.”
Maryland interviewed Evans, Temple Athletic Director Patrick Kraft and former Tennessee Athletic Director John Currie for the position, The Baltimore Sun’s Don Markus reported.
Evans “revamped the athletics budget and financial operations” in the past four years, according to the press release, giving the department a surplus just a handful of years after it had to cut seven sports. The multimedia rights agreement Evans helped foster with the Washington and Baltimore markets increased revenue by more than $30 million, the press release stated.
This is Evans’ second stint as an athletic director. He previously held the same position at the University of Georgia from 2004 until July 2010, when he was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Evans was fired shortly thereafter.
Evans played football at Georgia. He graduated from the school with a bachelor’s degree in finance in 1992 and a master’s degree of education in sports management in 1994.
Evans has previously served in the athletic departments at Oregon State University and the University of California, Berkeley. He has also worked as finance president at the IMG College in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
