News Summary
Keith Carter, the athletic director for Ole Miss, has received a contract extension through 2029 due to his notable achievements, including two NCAA team championships and significant improvements in the athletic department’s performance. The university has committed to investing in facilities and maintaining high standards in collegiate sports under Carter’s leadership, which has garnered praise from university officials.
Oxford, Mississippi – Keith Carter, the athletic director for Ole Miss, has had his contract extended through 2029, reflecting his significant achievements in the role since his appointment in November 2019. The announcement was made on July 10 and reinforces the commitment to maintaining the upward trajectory of Ole Miss athletics.
Carter’s previous annual salary was $1.1 million, a figure that underscored the critical role he has played in elevating the athletic department. Under his leadership, Ole Miss has seen notable success, including two NCAA team championships and four teams ranked No. 1 nationally. The athletic department achieved its best-ever finish in the Learfield Directors’ Cup, placing 27th this year, marking the third instance since Carter’s tenure began that the university has finished within the top-27.
Record Success in Recent Athletic Seasons
The 2024-25 athletic year stands out as particularly successful for Ole Miss, with several noteworthy accomplishments across various sports. The football program recorded its third 10-win season in four years, highlighted by a significant home victory against Georgia. In the 2025 NFL Draft, eight players from the football team were selected, showcasing the program’s strength under Carter’s guidance.
Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams made impressive runs in the NCAA tournament, each reaching the Sweet 16. Additionally, the softball team achieved a historic milestone by reaching its first-ever Women’s College World Series. The baseball team further contributed to the department’s success by securing a host bid in the NCAA tournament.
Key Leadership Decisions and Facilities Improvements
Since taking the helm, Carter has made pivotal decisions, including hiring Lane Kiffin as the football coach in 2020 and appointing Chris Beard as the basketball coach in 2023. These hires have been instrumental in fostering a competitive environment within the university’s athletic teams.
Visual improvements to facilities have also been significant during Carter’s tenure. In 2023, a $45 million renovation of the Olivia and Archie Manning Athletics Performance Center was completed, enhancing the training and support capabilities available to student-athletes. Additionally, a new Ole Miss Softball Stadium, which cost $32 million, opened its doors in February 2023, reflecting the university’s commitment to providing first-class facilities.
Looking ahead, future renovations are planned for the Ole Miss Soccer Stadium and the Ole Miss Golf Complex, indicating ongoing investments in athletic infrastructure aimed at supporting student-athlete development and competitive excellence.
Administrative Support and Vision for the Future
Carter’s efforts have received commendation from university leadership, particularly Chancellor Glenn F. Boyce, who praised the athletic director for elevating the profile of Ole Miss athletics and ensuring a strong experience for student-athletes. In response to the extension of his contract, Carter expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the Chancellor and the Athletics Foundation, reaffirming his dedication to sustaining and enhancing the success of Ole Miss athletics moving forward.
This contract extension signals further confidence in Carter’s vision for the future of Ole Miss athletics, promising continued development and performance at the highest levels in collegiate sports.
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Additional Resources
- WTVA News
- Wikipedia: Ole Miss
- Clarion Ledger
- Google Search: Ole Miss athletic director contract extension
- Ole Miss Sports
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Athletic Director
- WCBI News
- Google News: Keith Carter contract extension
- WJTV News
- Google Scholar: Ole Miss athletics
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