Mark Ingram, who has led UAB’s athletics department for more than a decade, announced his departure this week, bringing an end to an 11‑year run that reshaped the school’s sports landscape.
A Legacy of Growth and Challenge
During his tenure, Ingram oversaw a series of facility upgrades, the reinstatement of football, bowling and rifle programs, and the transition from Conference USA to the American Athletic Conference.
Under his guidance the Blazers captured multiple conference titles in football and men’s basketball, establishing a competitive presence in the region.
Andy Kennedy, a former head coach who returned to UAB in 2020, has been named interim director while the university launches a national search for a permanent replacement.
Kennedy’s recent work with the men’s basketball program includes championship seasons and postseason appearances, positioning him to provide continuity during the transition.
University officials cited the evolving nature of college athletics and the need for fresh leadership as key factors behind the change, reaffirming their commitment to student‑athlete success, community engagement and long‑term competitive excellence.
The move reflects broader shifts in the collegiate sports marketplace, where conference realignment, media rights and resource demands are reshaping program strategies across the nation.