UK athletics director to retire in June before taking on ‘new role’ with $950K salary

By: McKenna Horsley

Outlets: Kentucky Lantern

Published: March 3, 2026

Words: 499

Last Updated: 1 week ago

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University of Kentucky Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart is retiring after 24 years in the post but will begin a new role as the first executive-in-residence of the UK Sport and Workforce Initiative later this year.

According to a copy of Barnhart’s contract that was amended Monday, Barnhart’s new position will receive an annual salary of $950,000 through Aug. 31, 2030.

UK President Eli Capilouto announced Barnhart’s retirement, which will be in June, and new …

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