MIAMI – Florida International University's athletic director will step down in 2018.
The school's president announced Friday that Pete Garcia had his contract extended through July 31, 2018. However, Garcia indicated that he will not continue as executive director of sports and entertainment after his contract expires in two years.
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"Leading FIU has been one of my most rewarding and exciting experiences," Garcia said in a statement. "However, after months of personal reflection, I believe it is important to explore new professional challenges."
Garcia took over at FIU in 2006 and oversaw the school's transition from the Sun Belt Conference to Conference USA in 2012. During his tenure, FIU's athletic teams have won 16 conference championships and made 20 postseason appearances.
He was criticized by many for his decision to fire former football coach Mario Cristobal in 2012. The Panthers went to consecutive bowl games and won the Sun Belt in 2010 under Cristobal, but he was fired after a 3-9 season.
A banner plane carrying a sign that read, "FIU, Fire Pete Garcia" flew above the main campus earlier this week.
"Pete has led our athletic program during a pivotal decade in its development," FIU president Mark B. Rosenberg said in a statement. "I thank Pete for his leadership and the commitment he brought to the job."
Garcia said he intends to focus his remaining time at FIU on overseeing about $14 million in renovations and upgrades to athletic facilities, including the football stadium and the convocation center.
Rosenberg said the search for a new athletic director will begin at an appropriate time.