LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – Mitch Barnhart is stepping down as University of Kentucky athletic director, but he is not leaving the university. Starting July 1, Barnhart will serve as Executive in Residence for the UK Sports and Workforce Initiative at a base salary of $950,000 a year through 2030.
New role vs. current salary
Barnhart currently earns $1,550,000 a year as athletic director. His new contract includes a $650,000 retention bonus, up from $450,000 in his previous deal.
In the new role, Barnhart will lose some benefits, including two university-provided cars and supplemental life insurance. He will, however, keep his university-paid country club membership and receive 10 tickets to every UK home football, basketball, and baseball game. That benefit extends through his and his wife’s lifetimes, even after his retirement.
Who approved the new position?
Many fans have questioned whether UK’s Board of Trustees approved the creation of Barnhart’s new role. The board consists of 16 appointed members, two faculty members, one staff member, and one student. It holds final authority in all matters affecting the institution and exercises jurisdiction over its financial, educational, and other policies.
UK spokesperson Jay Blanton said the board approved no such position — because it was not required to. Blanton said the only employment contract the Board of Trustees approves is the president’s…