Statesboro, Georgia, September 1, 2025
News Summary
After 17 years of service, Sam Baker will resign from his position as Athletic Director at Georgia Southern University. His departure prompts a search for a new athletic director while Baker transitions to a special assistant role focused on academics and capital construction. Baker leaves a significant legacy, including the achievement of 32 Southern Conference championships and two national championships in football, as well as numerous facility enhancements that have shaped the university’s athletic programs.
Sam Baker to Step Down as Athletic Director of Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, Georgia – After 17 years of dedicated service, Sam Baker will be stepping down from his role as the director of athletics at Georgia Southern University. A decision that comes as a surprise to many, Baker has informed the university’s President Brooks Keel about his plans to relinquish his duties. As one of the longest-serving athletic directors in the university’s history, Baker leaves behind a legacy of achievements that have significantly shaped the athletic landscape at Georgia Southern.
Transition Period and Future Role
In a smooth transition plan, President Keel has asked Baker to stay on until the university appoints a new athletics director. This allows for a seamless handover during a crucial time, especially with the upcoming fall sports season just around the corner. The search for Baker’s replacement will start right away, signaling the university’s commitment to maintaining its standard of excellence in athletics.
Once a new athletics director is in place, Baker will transition into a new position as special assistant to the president. In this role, he will be involved in various projects, particularly focusing on academics and capital construction. It’s a fitting way for Baker to continue contributing to the university, giving him a chance to leverage his extensive experience in other important areas of campus development.
A Lasting Legacy
During Baker’s time with Georgia Southern, the university saw remarkable success in its athletic programs, securing an impressive 32 Southern Conference championships and making 29 NCAA championship appearances. Most notably, the football team under Baker’s leadership won two Football Championship Subdivision national championships, proudly boosting the program’s history to a total of six titles.
Baker’s tenure also saw significant coaching changes. Starting in 1996, he made pivotal decisions regarding the football head coach, bringing in new leadership to shape the team’s direction. This included the hiring of popular coaches who achieved notable success, particularly Paul Johnson, who had an outstanding record of 69-10.
Challenges Faced
Despite the successes, there were challenges along the way, including the men’s basketball program facing probation by the NCAA in 2010 due to serious violations. Baker took these challenges in stride, focusing on building a resilient program.
Facility Enhancements
Perhaps one of the most visible aspects of Baker’s contributions is the impressive facility upgrades made during his time. He oversaw the development of the Gene Bishop Field House, a new soccer and track stadium, renovations to J.I. Clements Stadium, and the Bennett-Ramsey Golf Center. These enhancements not only improved the experience for student-athletes but also elevated the university’s reputation for athletic excellence.
Looking Ahead
As Georgia Southern University begins the search for its next athletic director, the community is undoubtedly curious about who will take up the mantle. The urgency of this search reflects the thrilling times ahead, especially with the fall sports season looming. Baker’s departure marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of exciting new opportunities for Georgia Southern athletics.
FAQ Section
What is Sam Baker’s role at Georgia Southern University?
Sam Baker has served as the director of athletics for Georgia Southern University for 17 years and is stepping down to become a special assistant to the president.
What achievements did Baker accomplish during his tenure?
Under his leadership, the university won 32 Southern Conference championships and made 29 NCAA championship appearances, including two national championships in football.
What will happen next at Georgia Southern regarding the athletics director position?
A national search for a new athletics director will begin immediately, with a focus on finding someone to lead the department into the new season.
What will Baker’s new position involve?
Baker will assist with various projects centered on academics and capital construction after transitioning to his new role.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Georgia State University Seeks Naming Partner for Convocation Center
Fan Day at Georgia Southern University
Milledgeville Welcomes New Head Baseball Coach Jeff Pelkey
Georgia Enhances Safety Measures for Student-Athletes
Georgia State University Files Permit for New Baseball Stadium
Atlanta Public Schools Announces Leadership Changes
Atlanta Schools Face $100 Million Budget Shortfall
Additional Resources
- Statesboro Herald: Sam Baker to Step Down as Athletic Director
- Wikipedia: Athletic Director
- Georgia Southern Athletics: EA Sports College Football Tournament
- Google Search: Georgia Southern University Athletics
- Georgia Southern Athletics: Chris Davis Named New Director
- Google Scholar: Georgia Southern Athletic Programs
- Georgia Southern Athletics: Erks Perks Program Launch
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia Southern University
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
