The Path Forward for W&M Athletics
W&M President Katherine A. Rowe sent the following message to the campus community Oct. 6, 2020. - Ed.
Dear William & Mary Community,
Athletics Director Samantha Huge was asked to lead difficult change at William & Mary – change required to address long-standing imbalances and put the athletics department on sound financial and operational footing for years to come. She took on that challenge recognizing that it was in the best interest of the university and she continues to make decisions using that standard as her guide.
Now it is clear to me that a new approach is necessary. Accordingly, Director Huge and I have mutually agreed that it is best to part ways so the university can focus on the critical questions facing W&M Athletics. I accept this step with a heavy heart and with great respect for Samantha Huge and her leadership.
I have asked Jeremy Martin, my chief of staff, to assume the role of interim director of athletics, and to lead the engagements I announced at the Board meeting. Later this week, he will share the near- and long-term financial shortfalls W&M Athletics faces, as transparently as possible, so there is a broad understanding of them. And as planned, he will engage sport-specific groups who have asked to contribute practical solutions. That process continues intensively this month, with the goal of minimizing uncertainty for the student-athletes and coaches most directly affected.
Sincerely,
– Katherine
Katherine A. Rowe
President
