Coral Gables, FL (Sports Network) - Miami-Florida has stripped the interim tag from athletic director Blake James and gave him the job on a full-time basis.
James had been serving in the interim role since October 2012 when Shawn Eichorst left to take the athletic director's position at Nebraska.
"Blake James has proven that he has the experience, skills, leadership and especially the love for the university that we need in athletics," said University of Miami president Donna E. Shalala in a statement Friday.
James, who was athletic director at Maine from 2005-10, is currently in his third year in his third stint at Miami.
Before taking on the interim AD position, he was the senior associate AD for development and ticket operations. He also worked in the Hurricanes' athletic department from April 1995 until October 1997, then returned in 1998 before moving on again in 2002.
"Having spent more than nine years at the University of Miami, I understand what an honor and tremendous responsibility it is to serve as Director of Athletics," said James. "My passion for this institution, the students, the staff and our fans, is matched only by my commitment to excellence in everything that we do. I want to thank President Shalala and the Board of Trustees for their support and I look forward to many great days ahead at The U."
The Hurricanes are still awaiting word from the NCAA concerning an investigation into compliance issues.
