The University of Houston is embarking on a new chapter in the leadership of its athletics program. Chris Pezman will no longer serve as athletics director. The University is initiating a national search for a new vice president for intercollegiate athletics.

“Chris Pezman has ushered our athletics program through a period of incredible transformation, and we are grateful for his leadership over the past six years,” said UH President Renu Khator. “He has been a pivotal part of our entry into the Big 12 Conference and championed the success of student athletes on the field and in the classroom. This was a difficult but necessary decision as we navigate a paradigm shift in collegiate athletics. I want to thank Chris for his dedication to UH and to our student athletes. On behalf of the University, I wish Chris and his family the very best.”

The search for a new athletics director will begin immediately and will take utmost priority. During the transition Raymond S. Bartlett, Senior Vice President for Administration and Finance, will serve as interim director for athletics.