Heather Lyke fired: Pittsburgh shares statement after long-time AD's dismissal

Heather Lyke has been removed as the athletic director of the University of Pittsburgh. Lyke had been the school's AD since 2017, and her contract was set to expire in June 2025.

Pitt announced the firing on Monday and sent out a press release citing a need to navigate "a new era in college athletics" as the reason for her dismissal.

"Upon her arrival at Pitt in 2017, Heather guided our program through a unique period in college athletics and we thank her for her leadership during that time," chancellor Joan Gabel said in a statement, via ESPN. "However, as we enter a new era in college athletics, one that seems to change by the day, we need a new vision and a new leader of our athletics department."

According to ESPN, Lyke and Gabel did not see eye-to-eye on a variety of issues, including NIL.

However, Lyke was regarded as a great athletic director, as under her tenure, the Panthers won the ACC championship in 2021, the women's volleyball team made its first three Final Four appearances and its men's soccer advanced to the College Cup twice in the past four seasons.

In 2023, the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics honored Lyke as the Cushman & Wakefield AD of the Year Award recipient.

Per ESPN, Executive Associate Athletic Director Jennifer Tuscano will serve as interim athletic director until the school hires a permanent AD.

Heather Lyke fired by Pitt

Heather Lyke was fired by Pitt on Monday after six years with the program. However, Lyke had been openly exploring other AD positions as she was a finalist for Northwestern's job and interviewed for Ohio State's AD role earlier this year.

However, speaking to ESPN in 2024, Lyke said she felt great about her job security at Pitt.

"I feel great about it," she said. "I love it. I love the people. I love my new chancellor. We've got an awesome board. I've got an awesome group of coaches and the right number of sports. I'm a Midwest kid. It fits me. I'm really happy."

Lyke and the school had reportedly begun conversations of an extension, but Pitt decided to fire her instead.