LSU Names Verge Ausberry Permanent Athletic Director

BATON ROUGE, La. – Verge Ausberry, a long-tenured administrator and former student-athlete, has been officially appointed the permanent Athletic Director for Louisiana State University, a decision handed down directly by the university’s new president, Wade Rousse. Ausberry had been serving in the interim role since early April, stepping in after Scott Woodward was abruptly ousted from the position.

The announcement was made Monday afternoon during a press conference at the LSU Union, where President Rousse underscored Ausberry’s deep roots within the university and his vision for the future of LSU athletics.

“Verge Ausberry embodies the very spirit of LSU, bringing an unparalleled passion, a profound understanding of our athletic programs, and a proven track record of leadership,” President Rousse stated. “This decision was not made lightly, but with a clear focus on the sustained success of our student-athletes, both on the field and in the classroom. Verge’s commitment to excellence and his unwavering dedication to the LSU community make him the ideal choice to lead us into this new era.”

Ausberry, a former LSU football player from 1986-89, has spent more than two decades in various administrative capacities within the athletic department, most recently as Executive Deputy Director of Athletics and Executive Director of External Relations. His extensive experience includes overseeing key areas such as fundraising, community engagement, and strategic initiatives. This internal promotion signals a desire for continuity and stability within the department following a period of transition.

“I am incredibly humbled and honored to accept this role and to continue serving the university that has given me so much,” Ausberry said. “LSU Athletics has a proud tradition of excellence, and I am committed to building upon that legacy. My focus will be on ensuring our student-athletes have every resource they need to succeed, while also fostering an environment of integrity, innovation, and competitive greatness across all our sports programs.”

The permanent appointment comes just over six weeks after Scott Woodward’s departure from the AD role on April 8. Woodward, who had served as LSU’s Athletic Director since 2019, oversaw significant coaching changes, including the hiring of football coach Brian Kelly and men’s basketball coach Matt McMahon. While the university did not provide specific reasons for Woodward’s ousting at the time, sources familiar with the situation indicated the decision was part of a broader strategic realignment under President Rousse, who assumed the university’s top leadership position on March 1.

President Rousse, in one of his first major personnel decisions since taking office, emphasized his desire for an Athletic Director who can navigate the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics, including Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collectives, the transfer portal, and ongoing facility upgrades. Ausberry is expected to immediately address these challenges, as well as lead efforts in fundraising for critical athletic infrastructure projects and ensuring continued academic success for LSU’s student-athletes.

Ausberry’s deep institutional knowledge and existing relationships across the university and within the donor community are expected to facilitate a smooth transition. His appointment marks a new chapter for LSU Athletics, with the hope of continued national prominence and sustained success across its diverse athletic programs.