BYU Names Brian Santiago as New Athletic Director
Brigham Young University (BYU) has officially named Brian Santiago as its new athletic director, a move that signals both continuity and renewed commitment to athletic excellence. Santiago, a longtime figure in BYU athletics, steps into the role with a deep understanding of the university’s mission, values, and vision for competitive success.
Santiago has served in various leadership positions within BYU’s athletic department for more than two decades, most recently as the associate athletic director. His appointment follows years of dedicated service and close collaboration with former athletic director Tom Holmoe, who announced his retirement earlier this year. As someone who has been an integral part of BYU’s transition into the Big 12 Conference, Santiago brings valuable experience and institutional knowledge to the position.
A BYU alumnus himself, Santiago played basketball for the Cougars and has maintained strong ties to the athletic community ever since. His passion for sports and education, combined with his leadership skills and commitment to the university’s values, made him a natural choice for the role. His selection was met with enthusiasm by BYU fans, staff, and student-athletes alike.
During his time at BYU, Santiago has been instrumental in overseeing day-to-day operations, fundraising efforts, and major facility upgrades. His leadership played a key role in preparing BYU for its entry into the Power Five athletic landscape, ensuring that the university remains competitive both on and off the field. Colleagues describe him as a dynamic, strategic thinker with a deep love for BYU and its student-athletes.
One of Santiago’s primary goals as athletic director is to continue building a culture of excellence rooted in BYU’s unique values. In his introductory remarks, Santiago emphasized the importance of aligning athletic success with academic achievement, character development, and spiritual growth. He expressed a desire to enhance the student-athlete experience while competing at the highest levels of college athletics.
Looking ahead, Santiago will oversee a department that continues to grow in prominence. With the Big 12 move bringing increased visibility and competition, BYU will rely on Santiago’s steady leadership to navigate new challenges and opportunities. Among his key responsibilities will be strategic planning, donor engagement, and maintaining compliance with NCAA and conference regulations.
Santiago’s appointment also comes at a time of major shifts in the college sports landscape, including changes in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies and conference realignments. His familiarity with these evolving issues positions him to guide BYU athletics through this dynamic era.
In naming Brian Santiago as the new athletic director, BYU signals confidence in his vision, leadership, and ability to elevate the university’s athletic profile while preserving its core values. His tenure is expected to bring continued success and innovation to a program steeped in tradition and excellence.
