LINCOLN, Neb. — Leadership at the University of Nebraska plans to name an interim athletic director “very soon” and will quickly begin a national search to fill the post.

NU Interim President Chris Kabourek issued a statement on the stunning departure of athletic director Trev Alberts on Wednesday. The longtime university administrator said he is “disappointed” to see Alberts leave for Texas A&M but said he believes there is “incredible momentum” around Husker athletics.

“I’m disappointed to see Trev leave, but I am grateful for his 15 years of service to the University of Nebraska. Both the Mavericks and the Huskers achieved great things under Trev’s leadership and we wish him and his family all the best.”

Kabourek did not give a specific timeline for naming an interim AD or share details on the search for Alberts’ replacement, but stressed those processes would begin quickly.

“I have full confidence we will find a visionary leader who will build on Trev’s great work and keep the Huskers at the forefront in this changing landscape for college athletics.”

In a statement through the university, Alberts said he was grateful for the 15 years he spent as AD at UNO and UNL.

“I recognize that the timing of this change is not ideal, and I apologize in advance for any negative impact that it might have,” Alberts said. “Nebraska is well positioned for the evolving changes within our industry. Tough decisions will need to be made and unity of vision and high execution will be necessary, but I am confident that leadership in Nebraska will rise to the occasion.”

The NU Board of Regents is currently in a search for the next university president. Board member and former board chair Tim Clare told NCN in October that he expected a new president to be in place by the end of the first quarter. It is likely that the new president will pick the new AD.