New AD Introduced as Proven Builder, Leader

It was 30 years ago this year that Jim Smith joined the staff of Ohio State’s athletic department, then led by storied athletic director Andy Geiger.

Geiger had arrived in 1994 after holding that same job at the University of Maryland, and he became a mentor to Smith—in more ways than he could have known.

Now Smith is preparing to step into that role himself as Maryland’s Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics, bringing decades of experience at the college and pro levels, a bold vision and a leadership style that Geiger influenced.

“It was Andy that really inspired me to lead with integrity and have a bold vision for what college athletics can be,” Smith said in his introductory press conference on May 22. “There is an opportunity for change, opportunity for growth, for innovation, for leadership. … I'm standing here today because I want to grasp that mantle."

Read the rest of the story at UMTerps.com.