VERMILLION, S.D. — The University of South Dakota Athletic Director Jon Schemmel has promoted Corey Jenkins to Deputy Athletic Director & Chief Operating Officer. Jenkins has served as Deputy AD at USD since 2024 and prior to that was senior associate athletic director for facilities and operations since 2018. He served as interim athletic director throughout the fall semester of 2023. 
 
"Corey is an essential part of the Coyote Athletic Department and entire university," said Schemmel. "Over the last couple of years I have had the good fortune to see the dedication and passion Corey has for Coyote Athletics. He takes tremendous pride in working on behalf of our student-athletes and coaches and he has earned this opportunity."
 
Jenkins will oversee the day-to-day operations of the athletic department. He is the sport administrator of Coyote football, men's basketball and triathlon. Under his leadership as Deputy AD, ticket revenue has increased by 20%. He was fundamental in the creation of the Yote Fund and establishment of the Gassen Family Fieldhouse project. Jenkins also played a key role in the opening of the Natatorium, installation of a new turf field in the DakotaDome, and design of a new court in the Sanford Coyote Sports Center.
 
"I am extremely grateful that Jon has entrusted me to serve as deputy athletic director the last few years, and I am honored to add the role of Chief Operating Officer," said Jenkins. "I am incredibly excited to step into this new role, and I look forward to continuing to serve our student-athletes, coaches, staff and all of Coyote Nation. Go Yotes!"
 
Jenkins is a native of Athens, Georgia, and a 2005 graduate of University of Georgia where he earned his bachelor's degree in sports studies with a minor in sociology. He earned a master's degree from Florida State University in 2007. 
 
Jenkins spent 11 years at Wake Forest University in North Carolina, the last five of which saw him as assistant athletic director for events, facilities and operations. He also served as director of event management and facilities and assistant director of event management and facilities. 
 
Jenkins and his wife, Faith, have three children, Shepard, Everest, and Lochlan.