Shawn Eichorst is leaving UM to succeed Nebraska athletic director Tom Osborne.

University of Miami Athletic Director Shawn Eichorst has resigned, UM President Donna Shalala confirmed Thursday afternoon.

Eichorst, hired by the Hurricanes in April 2011, has accepted a five-year contract to succeed Nebraska Athletic Director Tom Osborne. Both UM and Nebraska announced the news Thursday.

“I am deeply disappointed in Shawn’s departure to the University of Nebraska as I thoroughly enjoyed working with him. We wish Shawn and his wonderful family the very best at their new post,” Shalala said in a written statement.

Shalala has appointed Blake James, senior associate athletic director, as the acting UM athletic director.