DePaul University and athletic director DeWayne Peevy have inked a new deal, extending his contract through 2031. Peevy, who was previously linked to the Kentucky athletic director position after Mitch Barnhart announced his retirement, has been a pivotal figure at DePaul since 2020. His tenure at Kentucky from 2008 to 2020, particularly as Deputy Director of Athletics, showcased his expertise in fundraising and media relations, especially with the men’s basketball program.
Peevy's name surfaced among potential candidates for the Kentucky role, alongside notable figures like Alabama’s AD Greg Byrne and Kentucky’s own Deputy AD Marc Hill. The University of Kentucky is in the midst of a thorough search for Barnhart’s successor, with President Eli Capilouto emphasizing the complexities of modern college athletics.
Capilouto highlighted the challenges of managing athletic department resources effectively amid evolving legal and financial landscapes. As Kentucky embarks on this search, Barnhart prepares for his new role within the university, transitioning to the academic side as the Executive in Residence for the UK Sports and Workforce Initiative.
Barnhart, set to begin his new position on July 1, clarified that he won’t be involved in choosing his successor but remains open to providing guidance if requested. His new contract runs through August 2030, signaling a new chapter for both him and the university.