Athletics fundraising surged from just over $9 million in Pollard’s first year to a school‑record $53 million in the 2025-26 academic year, fueling the program’s growth.

Over 22 years Pollard oversaw more than $400 million in facility construction and upgrades, including the $98 million Stark Performance Center opened in 2021.

Pollard signed a five‑year extension in early 2025 to lead through 2030, noting retirement timing was anticipated but not certain.

Notable hires under Pollard include Matt Campbell, Fred Hoiberg, and T.J. Otzelberger, which helped stabilize and elevate Cyclone programs.

Iowa State’s athletic program under Pollard reached new heights, securing multiple national and conference successes across eight sports, including 24 Big 12 titles, 11 bowl appearances, 12 NCAA Tournaments, 17 NCAA Women’s Tournaments, and 24 individual national champions, along with substantial facility investments.

He cited a desire to transition while healthy and to ensure a smooth leadership handoff during a transformational era for college athletics.

Pollard and his wife expressed a wish to retire while still healthy and vibrant, thanking university leadership for support during a period of change.

The retirement plan aims for a thoughtful transition amid ongoing shifts in college athletics, with Pollard wanting to enjoy retirement while remaining engaged on his terms.

Pollard and his wife moved to Ames in 2005, and he reflected on the personal and professional impact of his tenure.

In March 2026 he was invited by the White House to participate in a roundtable on saving college sports, highlighting national recognition of his leadership.

Pollard announced his retirement after 22 years, effective June 30, 2027, or when his successor is named, making him the longest-serving AD in Cyclones history and the longest-tenured active Power 4 AD.

His retirement will trigger a national search for a successor beginning in fall 2026 as Iowa State seeks to preserve momentum.