OU Forms Committee for Athletics Director Search After Castiglione Retirement

The University of Oklahoma has formed a 12-member search committee to find the next Vice President and Director of Athletics following the announced future retirement of longtime athletics director Joe Castiglione. Castiglione, who has served since 1998, will remain in an advisory role throughout the search and transition to an emeritus position upon the arrival of his successor, continuing fundraising efforts until his official retirement in 2028. The committee is chaired by Randall L. Stephenson, Chair of Football and Special Advisor to the President, and includes notable members such as former quarterback Sam Bradford, former women’s basketball coach Sherri Coale, and other university leaders representing key areas of the campus community. OU President Joseph Harris has emphasized the need for the new athletic director to be a visionary leader capable of navigating the evolving landscape of college sports, particularly in the era of NIL and the university's move to the Southeastern Conference. Castiglione reflected emotionally on his 27 years at OU, highlighting his legacy of hiring passionate and capable coaches and staff, and expressed gratitude for his family's support. The university is conducting a nationwide search with assistance from a search firm to identify the best candidate to build on Castiglione’s legacy.