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Eddie Nuñez has been appointed Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Houston, joining the Cougars after holding leadership roles at the University of New Mexico (UNM) and Louisiana State University (LSU). Nuñez most recently served as Vice President/Director of Athletics at UNM. He emerged as the leading candidate following an extensive national search aimed at finding an innovative leader capable of building a nationally competitive and financially robust program.
Nuñez will be formally introduced by UH President Renu Khator and Board of Regents Chairman Tilman Fertitta at a press conference on Wednesday, Aug. 21, at noon in the TDECU Stadium Club. The public is invited to attend.
“Eddie’s leadership will be critical as we continue to elevate our athletics programs, enhance the student-athlete experience and build on the tremendous momentum at the University of Houston,” said President Renu Khator.
Fertitta added, “Eddie has demonstrated incredible tenacity and leadership during his many years at LSU and as AD at New Mexico. He knows how to manage complex issues and solve problems. He joins a strong Cougars program with great head coaches already in place which will allow him to focus on raising revenue and planning for the future of UH Athletics.”
During his tenure at UNM, Nuñez oversaw significant success both on and off the field. Under his leadership, the Lobos secured 53 NCAA Tournament appearances, 22 Mountain West Conference titles, and numerous academic accolades. He also spearheaded the development of the New Mexico Mutual Champions Training Center and restructured key partnerships to ensure long-term financial success for UNM Athletics.
“I am incredibly honored to join the University of Houston and lead the Cougars during this exciting time,” said Nuñez. “I look forward to building on UH's strong foundation of athletic and academic excellence, and I am committed to providing our student-athletes with the resources and support they need to succeed both on the field and in the classroom. I want to personally thank President Khator and Chairman Fertitta for their trust and this incredible opportunity.”
Nuñez brings Power 5 experience from his 14 years at LSU, where he managed $400 million in facility renovations and construction projects, as well as led renegotiations for a 10-year multimedia rights agreement.
“Eddie has spent much of his career living just a few hours away in Baton Rouge, so he knows Houston and has many connections to the city. I know he will hit the ground running,” added Fertitta.
A former college athlete himself, Nuñez played basketball at the University of Florida before starting his administrative career at Vanderbilt University. He holds degrees from Miami-Dade Community College and the University of Florida. Nuñez is married to Jane Hess; they have two daughters, Elizabeth and Anna.
Nuñez has agreed to a five-year contract with UH pending final approval by the UH System Board of Regents next week.
Colleagues have reacted positively to Nuñez's hire:
“Houston made a home run hire as Eddie Nuñez is a visionary leader who will work tirelessly to position the Cougars for success,” said Dan Radakovich, University of Miami Director of Athletics.
“I am incredibly excited for Eddie, whom I have known for close to 30 years, and University of Houston. This is an outstanding hire in my opinion. Eddie is an incredibly talented administrator with a wealth of experience. He is an even better person who will do an excellent job leading the Houston program,” stated Jeremy Foley, University of Florida AD Emeritus.
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