DALLAS — After serving for 13 years as the athletic director at Southern Methodist University (SMU), Rick Hart has announced his intention to step down. This decision comes in the wake of the university’s successful transition to a power conference, marked by its recent membership in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

In a statement released on Friday, Hart expressed that it was “time for a new challenge” for both himself and the university. He emphasized that he would remain in his position until a successor is appointed. “It is with tremendous pride, heartfelt love, and yes, mixed emotions, that I share I have made the decision that this academic year will be my last at SMU,” Hart articulated.

Under his leadership, SMU, a private institution situated near downtown Dallas, achieved significant milestones, including its first appearance in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff during its inaugural season in the ACC. Additionally, the university welcomed Andy Enfield as its new men’s basketball coach last year, following his previous successes at Southern California and Florida Gulf Coast.

Hart’s resignation coincides with the upcoming retirement of R. Gerald Turner, who has been president of SMU for 30 years. Turner announced his plans to step down in August. The transition will see Jay Hartzell take over as the new president of SMU on June 1, having previously served at the University of Texas.

“During his time at SMU, Rick has led our Department of Athletics with character, class, and integrity, and he has made this decision in the same manner,” Turner commented. “With my transition to President Emeritus and the arrival of President-elect Jay Hartzell, Rick feels now is an opportune moment for both himself and SMU to progress. His choice will allow the incoming president to appoint a new Director of Athletics who aligns with his vision for the evolving landscape of intercollegiate athletics post-antitrust settlement.”

Rick Hart took on the athletic director role at SMU in July 2012, after previously holding the same position for six years at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. Under his tenure, SMU has poured over $250 million into improving athletic facilities, with notable projects including renovations to Moody Coliseum and the opening of a new end zone complex during the most recent football season.