Georgia Southern University President Dr. Kyle Marrero announced the promotion of Chris Davis to the role of Director of Athletics following Benko’s resignation. Davis will officially start on Nov. 15.

“I am truly honored to be given the opportunity to serve in the role of director of athletics at Georgia Southern,” Davis said. “I want to first thank Dr. Kyle Marrero for entrusting me to lead this department. We’re already doing special things here and I’m excited to be a part of the continued upward trajectory of Georgia Southern University and Athletics under Dr. Marrero’s leadership.”

 Davis also thanked Benko for his leadership and the foundation he has left at Georgia Southern.

 “I understand the passion and culture of Eagle Nation and I also know that we’re in a great place today thanks to Jared and his leadership,” Davis said. “I look forward to a smooth transition with our student-athletes, coaches, staff, donors and fans as we continue to soar to great heights. This is an exciting day for me and my family and I couldn’t have done this without their love and support.”

Davis has two decades of experience on the collegiate level including four years at Auburn before coming to Georgia Southern. He began with the Eagles in June of 2020 and has had a major role in several different areas with the department, including external operations, which includes communications, ticketing, marketing, GATA Productions, creative services, brand licensing, game operations and Georgia Southern Sports Properties, along with facilities, capital projects, contracts, equipment services and human resources.

“I am thrilled to announce Chris Davis as our new Director of Athletics at Georgia Southern,” said Georgia Southern president Dr. Kyle Marrero. “Chris is a proven leader who has been instrumental in our success over the past four and a half years. He is highly respected by our coaches, student-athletes, university leadership, and across the national athletic landscape, having served in leadership positions at multiple top-level institutions. I am confident and enthusiastic about the future of Georgia Southern Athletics with Chris at the helm.”

A formal press conference will be held Monday at 4 p.m. at the Hill Convocation Center.