Regent resigns after furor over Durkin

BALTIMORE» The chairman of the University System of Maryland board of regents has resigned following the furor over the decision to reinstate football coach DJ Durkin.

The board’s decision to reinstate Durkin on Tuesday drew harsh criticism from students, players and state politicians.

As a result, University President Wallace Loh fired Durkin on Wednesday.

On Thursday, board chairman James Brady stepped down from his post.

“In my estimation, my continued presence on the board will inhibit its ability to move Maryland’s higher education agenda forward,” Brady said in a statement. “And I have no interest in serving as a distraction from that important work.”

After reviewing external reports on the death of offensive lineman Jordan McNair and the culture of the program, the board decided to reinstate Durkin and retain athletic director Damon Evans.

McNair collapsed on the practice field and died two weeks later of heatstroke. Durkin was put on administrative leave in August and, following the board’s recommendation, returned for one day.

“I understand that reasonable people could come to other conclusions,” Brady said. “And even among our board, some did.”

The backlash from the decision was overwhelming.

During the news conference announcing Durkin’s reinstatement, Loh said he would retire in June 2019, a surprise development.