Jamie Pollard’s retirement announcement closes the book on one of the most transformational tenures in college athletics. When Pollard arrived at Iowa State in 2005, the Cyclones were often fighting for relevance in the Big 12. Twenty-two years later, he leaves as arguably the most influential athletic director in school history, having elevated Iowa State into a nationally respected athletic department.
Pollard will finish out his career at Iowa State on June 30th, 2027.
On Friday, Pollard said in a statement, “My wife, Ellen, and I look forward to the next chapter in our life’s journey and it is important to us that we transition now, while we are both healthy and young, so we can fully enjoy our retirement years. I am grateful to President Cook for allowing me to share this news now and hopefully it will allow the university plenty of time to properly transition new leadership to our department during a transformational time in college athletics.”
Under his watch, Iowa State won 24 Big 12 team championships across eight sports, reached 11 bowl games, captured the 2021 Fiesta Bowl, made 12 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament appearances and 17 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament appearances, while producing 24 NCAA individual champions. Academic success also soared, with Iowa State routinely setting school records for graduation and academic performance rates.
His legacy is also tied to the coaches he hired and supported. Pollard took a chance on Matt Campbell, who became the winningest football coach in school history and turned Iowa State into a consistent Big 12 contender. He hired T.J. Otzelberger, who revitalized the men’s basketball program and restored Hilton Magic. On the women’s side, he ensured continuity and excellence by supporting Hall of Fame coach Bill Fennelly, while Iowa State wrestling remained one of the nation’s marquee programs during his tenure.
Beyond the scoreboard, Pollard dramatically changed the physical landscape of Iowa State athletics. More than $400 million in facility improvements were completed during his tenure, including major upgrades to Jack Trice Stadium, Hilton Coliseum, the Sukup Basketball Complex, wrestling facilities, and numerous Olympic sports venues. He also championed the ambitious CyTown development project, designed to transform the area surrounding Jack Trice Stadium into a year-round destination.
Fundraising exploded under Pollard’s leadership, growing from just over $9 million annually before his arrival to more than $53 million in 2025-26. His influence extended nationally as well, earning Athletics Director of the Year honors twice and leadership roles with several major collegiate athletics organizations.
Simply put, Jamie Pollard didn’t just lead Iowa State athletics—he redefined what was possible in Ames. His successor will inherit a department that is stronger, richer, and more competitive than at any point in school history.
