Blake James has been named the Miami Hurricanes interim athletic director to replace Shawn Eichorst, who resigned to accept the athletic director position at the University of Nebraska. University of Miami president Donna Shalala released the following statement:
"I am deeply disappointed in Shawn's departure to the University of Nebraska as I thoroughly enjoyed working with him. We wish Shawn and his wonderful family the very best at their new post."
Eichorst's move puts the university and its athletic program in a difficult situation, considering the investigation into Miami's compliance practices, and how close Eichorst worked with the NCAA in its inquiries.
In August 2011, former booster and convicted Ponzi scheme architect Nevin Shapiro made claims of providing dozens of Miami athletes with improper benefits over an eight-year period.
Shapiro is currently serving a 20-year prison term for his role in squandering investors out of $930 million.
James is a senior associate athletic director for Miami, but will serve as Eichorst's replacement for now. The Hurricanes could be facing severe sanctions, and will have to rely on new leadership to guide them through the process.
This story was originally published on SBNation.com.