Jared Benko Takes Helm at Iowa State Athletics

Jared Benko has been named the new athletic director for the Iowa State Cyclones, marking the beginning of a new leadership period. Benko's extensive career in college athletics spans over 20 years. Prior to joining Iowa State, he served as the athletic director for Georgia Southern University, where he was noted for his success in fundraising efforts. He also brings experience from Auburn University and other SEC institutions like Georgia and Mississippi State. Benko's arrival signifies a fresh start for Iowa State athletics, which has seen other significant changes recently, including a new head football coach.

The university's athletic department faces several upcoming transitions, including finding new head coaches for women's basketball and women's soccer, alongside the introduction of a new women's wrestling program. Benko and his team will be tasked with enhancing the financial growth of the athletic department to ensure competitiveness in the dynamic world of college athletics. This appointment follows the retirement of Jamie Pollard, who had been in the role for about 21 years.