Jamey Harrison Takes Helm as New UIL Executive Director in Texas

New Leadership: Dr. Jamey Harrison becomes the eighth executive director in UIL history, taking over from the retiring Dr. Charles Breithaupt on April 1, 2025.

Internal Promotion: Harrison is a familiar face at UIL, having served as the Deputy Executive Director since 2011, overseeing departments, governmental relations, and rulemaking.

Proven Track Record: He played key roles in major UIL initiatives, including the six-conference system, Division I/II playoff brackets for team sports, and using technology for realignment.

Extensive Experience: Before UIL, Harrison worked extensively in public education as a teacher, coach, principal, deputy superintendent, and notably as Superintendent of Bridge City ISD, where he earned praise for his leadership, especially during the Hurricane Ike crisis.

Why this matters: Harrison brings continuity and deep institutional knowledge to the role. His background suggests a continued focus on competitive equity, leveraging technology, and robust crisis management for Texas school activities.

Q: What is the UIL?

A: The University Interscholastic League (UIL) is the organization that creates rules for and administers nearly all athletic, musical, and academic contests for public primary and secondary schools in Texas.

Q: Who is Dr. Jamey Harrison?

A: Dr. Jamey Harrison is the incoming Executive Director of the UIL. He previously served as UIL's Deputy Executive Director and has a background as a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent in Texas public schools.

Q: What are some key UIL initiatives Dr. Harrison was involved in?

A: He played a significant role in implementing the six-conference system for school classification, adding Division I and Division II playoff brackets across team sports, and improving the school realignment process using technology.

Stability: Harrison's promotion provides leadership stability for the UIL, ensuring continuity in managing Texas high school extracurriculars.

Experience Matters: His deep experience within UIL and prior roles in school administration means he understands the complexities facing schools, students, and coaches.

Focus Areas: Expect a continued focus on competitive balance, efficient administration potentially enhanced by technology, and preparedness for navigating challenges like weather events or health crises, based on his track record.

Source 1: There's a new chief executive overseeing Texas high school football

Source 2: Information compiled from reports by TexasHSFootball.com.

Source 3: Information compiled from reports by The Record Newspapers.