UAB has parted ways with associate vice president and athletics director Mark Ingram, bringing an 11-year run to an end as the department prepares for a new era under interim leader Andy Kennedy.
The move comes during a period of real change for UAB Athletics. The school said the decision reflects the need to keep adapting in a rapidly changing college sports environment, with the University of Alabama at Birmingham framing the shift as part of its long-term vision for the department.
Ray L. Watts said: “Mark has played an important role in the growth and evolution of UAB Athletics.”
That is a fair summary of the bigger picture. Ingram’s tenure included major facility investments and a successful transition to the American Conference, along with continued support for student-athletes and coaches.
Why the timing matters
This is not a change happening in isolation. UAB Athletics has already been through a turbulent stretch, with Trent Dilfer removed as head football coach in October 2025, November 2025 bringing unwanted headlines after a player stabbed two other players before a game, and July 2026 seeing former Head Softball Coach Taylor Smartt exit after facing accusations of abuse.
Against that backdrop, the school’s leadership change is about more than one departure. It is a reset, and UAB has made clear it wants stability and a fresh start as it looks ahead.
Watts said, “Our commitment to athletics has never been stronger,” while also stressing that “success increasingly depends on an institution’s ability to adapt, innovate, strengthen community partnerships, engage supporters, and compete in a rapidly changing environment.”
He added that UAB is committed to doing exactly that, and said the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees has been a key part of that wider vision.
Andy Kennedy steps in
Andy Kennedy will serve as interim director of athletics, giving UAB a short-term leadership solution while the school works through the next stage of the process. UAB said Kennedy is “widely respected across collegiate athletics” and has played a significant role in advancing the visibility and success of UAB Athletics.
For Ingram, the farewell was gracious. He said it was an “honor” to serve the school, and added: “I wish everyone connected with UAB Athletics great success in the future. I leave with tremendous pride in what we accomplished together.”
Watts also thanked him for his dedication and said he wished him continued success in the years ahead.
UAB now moves into a new phase with interim leadership in place. The key question is how quickly the department can settle, build confidence and carry the momentum Watts says the school is determined to protect.
