Washington athletic director Troy Dannen departs for the same position at Nebraska.
Troy Dannen began his tenure as Washington’s 16th athletic director with high hopes, pledging to UW President Ana Mari Cauce that he wouldn’t let her down. However, just six months later, he is leaving for a similar role at Nebraska. This surprising decision comes shortly after he settled into a new home in Redmond and attended a donor event with Cauce and UW football coach Jedd Fisch.
Cauce expressed her intent to find a leader committed to Husky Athletics as they prepare to transition into the Big Ten. Dannen’s new contract at Nebraska includes a base salary of $1.6 million, rising annually, along with several bonuses. His departure also requires Nebraska to pay a $1.5 million buyout to Washington.
During his brief tenure, Dannen oversaw significant events, including Washington’s College Football Playoff run and key coaching changes. His departure raises challenges for his successor, particularly regarding the athletic department’s financial situation, which has projected deficits amid increasing travel expenses and a hefty loan for stadium renovations.
Dannen’s background includes a successful stint at Tulane, where he built a competitive football program. His move to Nebraska, driven by personal ties to the Midwest, leaves Washington in search of a new athletic director to reinvigorate a fan base eager for stability and success.
