The University of Rhode Island began the search for its next athletic director following Thorr Bjorn’s departure for the University of Massachusetts Amherst in November 2025, but has yet to find his successor.
URI appointed then-Associate Athletics Director of Internal Affairs Britney Miles to interim AD following Bjorn’s departure in November 2025. The school paired that announcement with the reveal of a 13-member search committee dedicated to finding URI’s next AD. The committee is headed by URI president and search committee chair Marc Parlange.
The university also announced it would be utilizing the services of a national firm that had experience in similar matters. Now, in early February, Parlange has revealed which firm has been chosen and provided an update in a note to The Cigar.
“We have contracted the services of CSA, a preeminent firm specializing in high-profile athletic leadership and athletic director searches, to assist us in this important process,” Parlange said. “CSA will support the work of our 13-member search committee, which brings together a broad range of perspectives, including faculty, staff, athletics leadership, coaches, and a student-athlete.”
Parlange recognizes the impatience and angst that can come with vacancies, but stresses the importance of making the right choice.
“We plan to move aggressively with this search, but in a way that is thoughtful and thorough,” he said. “Hearing from and engaging key stakeholders will be an important part of the process. We recognize the significant value our athletics program holds for our community, alumni, donors, and fans, and we take that responsibility seriously.”
