Oregon State Beavers Athletics Update

Highlights from a busy week for Oregon State sports, including the upcoming departure of long-time Athletic Director Scott Barnes.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:36pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting in bold colors representing Oregon State's team colors, capturing the motion and intensity of a sports event or competition in an abstract, deconstructed style.A cubist interpretation of the energy and dynamism of Oregon State athletics, as the university transitions to new leadership.Corvallis Today

Oregon State University announced that longtime Athletic Director Scott Barnes will be stepping down in August after a decade leading the Beavers' athletic department. This comes as the school's football, wrestling, and other programs continue to see success on the field and court. The university has begun the process of finding Barnes' replacement, while the Beavers' various teams gear up for another busy season of competition.

Why it matters

Scott Barnes' departure marks a significant transition for Oregon State athletics, as he has overseen a period of growth and achievement for the Beavers across multiple sports. The new athletic director will inherit a department with strong programs, but will also need to navigate the evolving landscape of college sports, including name, image and likeness (NIL) rules and conference realignment.

The details

Barnes announced his retirement last month after 10 years as Oregon State's athletic director. The university has begun the search process to find his replacement. In the meantime, spring practices are underway for the Beavers' football team under head coach Jamarcus Shephard, while the wrestling program is coming off another Pac-12 championship under coach Chris Pendleton. Oregon State's other teams, including women's basketball, are also preparing for their upcoming seasons.

  • Scott Barnes announced his retirement in March 2026.
  • Barnes' last day as Oregon State athletic director will be August 31, 2026.
  • The university has started the process of finding Barnes' replacement.

The players

Scott Barnes

The outgoing athletic director of Oregon State University, who has held the position for the past 10 years.

Jamarcus Shephard

The head coach of the Oregon State football team.

Chris Pendleton

The head coach of the Oregon State wrestling team, which recently won the Pac-12 championship.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are grateful for Scott's decade of leadership and his commitment to Oregon State athletics. His steady guidance has helped our programs achieve great success, and we wish him the best in his next chapter.”

— Oregon State University

What’s next

Oregon State will conduct a search for a new athletic director to replace the retiring Scott Barnes. The new AD will be tasked with continuing the Beavers' momentum across all sports while navigating the evolving landscape of college athletics.

The takeaway

Scott Barnes' departure marks the end of an era for Oregon State athletics, but the university is well-positioned to find a new leader who can build on the Beavers' recent success and guide the department through the challenges and opportunities ahead.