South Carolina AD Jeremiah Donati discusses recent graduates, upcoming postseason events, football season expectations, and the future direction of Gamecock Athletics in a pivotal year.

As the University of South Carolina wraps up another academic year, Athletics Director Jeremiah Donati has found himself at the heart of numerous pivotal conversations surrounding the Gamecocks. With graduation celebrations underway, multiple teams in postseason contention, football anticipation building, and big-picture planning for the future, Donati’s leadership is being tested and showcased in equal measure.

In a wide-ranging discussion that touched on academics, competition, and the evolving landscape of college athletics, Donati provided insight into the direction of Gamecock Athletics. His comments reflect a mix of pride in recent accomplishments and urgency about the challenges ahead.

Celebrating Student-Athlete Graduates: The Core of the Mission

For Donati, perhaps no event is more meaningful than watching student-athletes walk across the stage at graduation. “It’s why we do what we do,” he said. “Wins and championships are great, but seeing our young people succeed in the classroom and graduate is the ultimate goal.”

This spring, South Carolina saw dozens of its student-athletes earn their degrees, many of whom balanced full athletic schedules, community service, and academic responsibilities. From football to softball, tennis to track, the commitment to academic excellence was evident across the board.

Donati emphasized that the athletic department invests heavily in academic support systems. “Our Dodie Academic Enrichment Center is a cornerstone of that effort. We’ve got tutors, advisors, learning specialists—all dedicated to making sure our athletes don’t just stay eligible, but thrive.”

The graduation success rate (GSR) for South Carolina student-athletes has remained above the national average, something Donati attributes to both departmental support and the individual drive of the athletes. “We recruit student-athletes who understand that a degree from South Carolina matters. It’s not just about playing ball—it’s about building a future.”

Postseason Momentum: Gamecocks in National Contention

As the spring sports calendar hits its peak, several South Carolina teams are making waves on the national stage. From softball hosting the NCAA Columbia Regional to men’s and women’s golf earning postseason berths, the Gamecocks are competing with the best in the country.

Donati noted the energy around campus during this time of year. “You’ve got one team getting on the bus for NCAA play, another one celebrating a big win, and fans locking into every bracket. It’s what makes this job so rewarding.”

South Carolina Softball, in particular, has been a bright spot, earning the right to host an NCAA regional—a significant honor in college athletics. Donati praised head coach Beverly Smith for the team’s steady growth and the culture she’s built. “Hosting is a statement about the program’s quality and consistency. We’re proud to showcase Columbia and Beckham Field on the national stage.”

Tennis and track & field are also expected to send individuals and teams into NCAA postseason play. Donati credited coaches across the department for creating a competitive atmosphere that’s “rooted in development and excellence.”

“Our coaches know what it takes to win at the SEC and national levels. And they’re doing it the right way—focusing on the whole student-athlete experience.”

Looking Ahead to Football Season: Hype, Hope, and Expectations

Of course, no topic stirs more interest than Gamecock Football. Coming off a rollercoaster of a season, head coach Shane Beamer enters a critical year with new coordinators, transfer talent, and a fanbase hungry for a breakthrough.

Donati was candid about the importance of this fall. “We know how passionate our fan base is about football. Shane understands that, and so do I. This season presents a huge opportunity for us to take a step forward and generate momentum not just in wins, but in culture and recruiting.”

Beamer’s squad returns key pieces while welcoming in several high-profile transfers and incoming freshmen. One of the hot topics this offseason has been quarterback play, with LaNorris Sellers and others competing for the starting role. Donati didn’t comment on specific personnel but expressed confidence in the staff’s direction.

“I talk to Coach Beamer regularly, and I believe in his leadership. We’ve invested in facilities, nutrition, strength training—all the pieces to help our football student-athletes succeed. Now it’s about execution.”

Donati also highlighted the importance of game day experiences. From improvements to Williams-Brice Stadium to fan engagement initiatives, the department is working hard to enhance the total package.

“We want fans to feel the difference from the moment they park to the final whistle,” Donati said. “We’re investing in the fan experience because that atmosphere helps drive recruiting, revenue, and program pride.”

NIL, Facilities, and the Changing Landscape

One of the most pressing challenges for any athletic director today is navigating the fast-moving world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). Donati acknowledged the complexity of the issue but emphasized South Carolina’s commitment to supporting its athletes.

“We’ve built a strong relationship with Garnet Trust and other NIL collectives,” he said. “Our goal is to provide athletes with tools, education, and resources so they can succeed in this new model of college athletics.”

Donati stressed the importance of regulation and structure but acknowledged that NIL isn’t going away. “This is the reality now. The schools that embrace it responsibly will thrive. We want to be in that group.”

Facilities remain a major talking point as well. South Carolina has already made significant upgrades to venues such as Founders Park (baseball), Colonial Life Arena (basketball), and Williams-Brice Stadium (football), but Donati made it clear that infrastructure investment is ongoing.

“We’ve got to keep evolving. Whether it’s practice facilities, athlete recovery spaces, or video technology, we want to be on the leading edge,” he said. “Our donors have been incredible, and I think they understand that these upgrades directly impact performance.”

Title IX, Equity, and Expanding Opportunity

As the department continues to grow, Donati said that equity and inclusion remain central to his vision. South Carolina has a long history of supporting women’s athletics, most notably with the sustained excellence of women’s basketball under coach Dawn Staley, a program that has become a national model.

“We don’t just comply with Title IX—we embrace it,” Donati said. “From facilities to media coverage to marketing, we’re committed to giving all of our athletes the support they deserve.”

He noted the department’s expansion of mental health services, mentorship programs, and leadership development as part of a broader push to ensure holistic athlete development. “We want our student-athletes to leave here better people, not just better players.”

Community Engagement and Gamecock Nation

One area that Donati repeatedly returns to is the relationship between athletics and the greater Columbia community. South Carolina’s teams are embedded in the city and region in ways that go beyond wins and losses.

“Our student-athletes do thousands of hours of community service each year,” Donati said. “Whether it’s visiting local schools, supporting youth sports, or participating in charity events, they represent this university with pride.”

Donati said expanding the brand of Gamecock Athletics across the state—and the Southeast—is a top priority. “We want kids from all corners of South Carolina to dream of wearing the garnet and black.”

To that end, the department is investing more in marketing, outreach, and digital content to ensure fans—young and old—stay connected.

The Vision for Gamecock Athletics

As he looks to the future, Donati is focused on sustainability, competitiveness, and student-athlete success. It’s not just about building teams that win—it’s about building programs that endure.

“We have to win the right way. That means recruiting character, developing potential, and staying true to the values of this university,” he said.

Donati is optimistic about where the program is heading. With stable leadership, rising talent across sports, and robust community support, South Carolina is positioning itself for a strong future.

“I came here because I believe in the potential of this place,” he said. “We’ve got elite coaches, incredible fans, and a university that’s committed to excellence. Now we have to keep pushing forward.”