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Fernando Lovo its seventh Director of Athletics, succeeding Rick George following unanimous approval by the Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoard of Regents. Lovo arrived from the University of New Mexico, where he led the Lobos to eight Mountain West titles and a top Group of 5 finish in the Learfield Director’s Cup. During his tenure, New Mexico also achieved record academic success, including 231 Scholar-Athletes and 273 All-Academic Team selections. He also guided the department to a record revenue year, increasing the operating budget by 17.6% and setting highs in ticket sales, fundraising, and other key areas.

Lovo made an immediate impact with key coaching hires, including football coach Jason Eck, who led the team to a 9–3 season, and basketball coach Eric Olen, who opened with a strong start. Prior to New Mexico, he held senior leadership roles at the University of Texas, overseeing major operations and nearly $500 million in capital projects. His career also includes experience with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Ohio State, Houston, and Florida, where he was part of two national championship teams.

A New Orleans native raised in Miami, Lovo earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Florida. He is widely recognized for his focus on student-athlete success, operational excellence, and innovation during a rapidly evolving era in college athletics. Lovo and his wife, Jordan, have two children, Liam and Layla.