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Iowa State athletics director announces planned retirement

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AMES, Iowa. Jamie Pollard, Iowa State's longest-serving athletics director, announced Friday he will retire after 22 years leading the Cyclones' 18-sport program and plans to step down June 30, 2027, or when a new athletics director is appointed; Pollard moved to Ames in 2005 and emphasized orderly transition timing. University officials, including President Cook, will begin a search to identify a successor and use the interval to transition leadership during significant change in college athletics; under Pollard the department raised hundreds of millions, advanced facility projects and CyTown plans, posted a 95% 2025 Graduation Success Rate, and recorded multiple conference championships and postseason appearances.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2005 – Jamie Pollard and his family moved to Ames to lead Iowa State Athletics.
Over his tenure – Department completed facility upgrades, raised significant funds, and proposed CyTown development.
2021 – Iowa State won the Fiesta Bowl during programs overseen in Pollard’s tenure.
2025 – The athletic department recorded a 95% institutional Graduation Success Rate.
Announcement Friday – Pollard stated he will retire June 30, 2027, or when successor is in place.

Why This Matters to You

Jamie Pollard's retirement could change the game at Iowa State. His leadership saw facility upgrades, fundraising, and academic success. If you're a Cyclones fan, or have a student athlete, watch for changes in the athletic department's direction.

The Bottom Line

Pollard's retirement marks the end of an era for Iowa State athletics. His successor will inherit a strong legacy and big shoes to fill. Keep an eye on the search process. It could impact the future of college sports in Iowa. Worth forwarding if you know a Cyclones supporter.