The University of Colorado has officially appointed Fernando Lovo as its new athletic director. This announcement was made on Monday, following unanimous approval of a five-year contract by the CU Board of Regents. Lovo, who previously served as the athletic director at the University of New Mexico, will step into his new role on Thursday. His contract, which marks him as the highest-paid athletic director in CU history, includes an annual salary of $1.2 million, comprised of a base salary of $600,000 and an additional $600,000 for media activities and community relations.
Lovo, 37, takes over from Rick George, who has decided to step away from his position at the end of the academic year after a notable 13-year tenure. George is recognized as the longest-serving AD at CU since Eddie Crowder, who led from 1965 to 1984. During the transition period, Lovo and George will work closely together.
In his initial comments, Lovo expressed enthusiasm about joining the CU community, stating, “I’m honored to join this incredible group of student-athletes, coaches, and staff at a tremendous institution that strives for excellence and espouses the right values.” He emphasized the changing landscape of college athletics and his commitment to supporting student-athletes both academically and athletically. Lovo also acknowledged the significance of taking over from George, whom he referred to as one of the legendary athletic directors in the country.
Lovo’s background in athletic administration is extensive. Before his brief stint at New Mexico, which began on December 1, 2024, he held various positions, including two periods at the University of Texas between 2016 and 2024. He also gained experience in the NFL as chief of staff for the Jacksonville Jaguars and has worked at Ohio State and the University of Houston.
During Lovo’s time at New Mexico, he made impactful hires, including Jason Eck as head football coach, guiding the Lobos to a 9-4 record and a bowl appearance, their first since 2016. He also appointed Eric Olen as the men’s basketball coach, who has started the season strongly with a 10-2 record. Under Lovo, the New Mexico athletics program achieved its best finish in the Learfield Director’s Cup standings in over a decade, while also claiming eight Mountain West Conference championships.
Aside from athletic achievements, Lovo’s tenure at New Mexico was marked by significant growth in fundraising, with the operating budget increasing by 17.6%. The program set records in ticket sales, multimedia rights, and other revenue streams. It also saw academic success, with a record 231 Scholar-Athlete selections and numerous All-Academic Team members.
As Lovo transitions to CU, he faces challenges including navigating a projected budget deficit within the CU athletic department. The evolving landscape of college athletics, characterized by increased player mobility and changes in eligibility rules, will also shape his strategies moving forward.
The CU community welcomed Lovo and his family, including his wife Jordan and their two children, Liam and Layla, as they embark on this new chapter. Chancellor Todd Saliman remarked on Lovo’s high character and innovative approach, emphasizing that he is well-equipped to lead CU Athletics into a new era.
