The University of Pittsburgh announced on Monday that Heather Lyke, the director of athletics, has been relieved of her duties. Lyke, who took on the role in 2017, oversaw a period of significant success for Pitt’s athletic programs. Under her leadership, the football team secured its first ACC championship, and the volleyball team made its historic first appearance in the NCAA Final Four, among other achievements that strengthened the university’s sports reputation.
“As we step into a new and rapidly evolving era in college athletics, it has become clear that we need a fresh vision and new leadership to guide our athletics department,” said Joan Gabel, Chancellor of the University of Pittsburgh. “On behalf of the entire Panther community, we extend our gratitude to Heather Lyke and her family, and we wish them all the best in their future endeavors. We appreciate her dedicated service to Pitt and the legacy she leaves behind.”
Chancellor Gabel emphasized the importance of Pitt Athletics, underscoring its integral role within the university: “Pitt Athletics has a proud tradition of being one of the nation’s leading athletic programs. Our student-athletes, coaches, and staff are world-class, and we are fortunate to have incredible fans and generous donors who support our teams. Anchored within one of the world’s top research universities, Pitt Athletics plays a critical role in connecting the university to the broader community. It serves as a gateway to the university, not only locally but also on a national and global scale.”
As the university begins the search for Lyke’s successor, Jennifer Tuscano has been appointed as interim director of athletics. A nationwide search is currently underway to find the right individual to take over the role and lead Pitt Athletics into its next chapter.
