Iowa State picks Auburn deputy Benko to succeed Pollard as AD

Tom Gallagher · 2026-10-17T09:20:50.386Z

Benko's time handling NIL deals at Auburn could be key for keeping Iowa State's programs funded properly.

31 sourcesUpdated Oct 17, 20261 min read

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Iowa State picks Auburn deputy Benko to succeed Pollard as AD — © IJR

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Iowa State has selected Jared Benko, Auburn’s executive deputy athletics director and a former Georgia Southern athletic director, to succeed longtime AD Jamie Pollard. Benko brings more than 20 years of college athletics experience, including work overseeing operations, finances, fundraising, NIL and revenue sharing. Pending approval by the Iowa Board of Regents, he is set to begin Oct. 30 and lead the university’s 18-sport program as it navigates major changes in college athletics.

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In this story:Jamie Pollard

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Last updatedOct 17, 2026

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Nicole Hardy⚡61d
Pollard built a lot at Iowa State over the years, so I hope Benko can keep that momentum going without major changes.
Tom Gallagher⚡71d
Benko's time handling NIL deals at Auburn could be key for keeping Iowa State's programs funded properly.

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