The University of Colorado has officially named Fernando Lovo as its new athletic director, marking a significant change in the leadership of its athletics department. The announcement, made on Monday, follows the unanimous approval of Lovo’s five-year contract by the CU Board of Regents, which includes an annual salary of $1.2 million. This figure makes Lovo the highest-paid athletic director in the institution’s history.
Lovo’s contract consists of a base salary of $600,000 per year, along with an additional $600,000 for media and community relations activities. He will officially assume his duties at CU on Thursday, following the departure of Rick George, who has served as athletic director for the past 13 years and plans to transition to a special advisory role.
In a statement, Lovo expressed his enthusiasm for joining the University of Colorado, stating, “I’m honored to join this incredible group of student-athletes, coaches, and staff at a tremendous institution that strives for excellence and espouses the right values.” He highlighted the transformative period in college athletics and his commitment to leading CU toward future successes. He emphasized his desire to support student-athletes in achieving both academic and competitive excellence.
Prior to this appointment, Lovo spent 13 months as the athletic director at the University of New Mexico. His tenure there was marked by notable achievements, including hiring head football coach Jason Eck, who led the Lobos to a 9-4 record and their first bowl appearance since 2016. Under Lovo’s leadership, the New Mexico athletics program also recorded its best performance in the Learfield Director’s Cup standings in 12 years, finishing 49th overall.
Lovo’s experience encompasses significant roles at several universities, including two stints at the University of Texas and a brief period working for the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars. His background also includes positions at Ohio State University and the University of Houston. These experiences have equipped him with a diverse skill set in athletics administration.
The transition period between Lovo and George will ensure continuity within the CU athletics department. George, who announced his decision to step down last November, will assist Lovo as he acclimates to his new role. He will remain involved with the CU football program and head coach Deion Sanders.
In a press release, Chancellor Justin Schwartz emphasized the importance of finding a leader of high character and innovative thinking during the search for a new athletic director. He expressed confidence in Lovo’s ability to guide CU Athletics through the evolving landscape of college sports. Schwartz noted, “Fernando is a dynamic leader who embodies CU’s high standards and values.”
Lovo’s hiring comes at a critical time for the CU athletics program, which is facing projected budget deficits amid changes in player movement, eligibility rules, and new revenue models under the name, image, and likeness (NIL) framework. As he steps into this role, Lovo will be tasked with navigating these challenges while maintaining the university’s commitment to excellence in athletics.
With Lovo’s track record in enhancing athletic programs and prioritizing the student-athlete experience, the University of Colorado is poised for a new era of leadership within its athletics department.
