Tuskegee University has parted ways with football coach Aaron James and launched a national search for his replacement, the university announced Sunday.
Assistant head coach and offensive line coach Keith Higdon will serve as the Golden Tigers’ interim head coach during the search.
James, a Tuskegee alumnus, was hired as the program’s 18th head coach ahead of the 2023 season after returning to his alma mater as offensive coordinator in 2022.
He went 7-4 in his first season, including a 6-2 record in Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference play. The Golden Tigers finished 5-6 overall and 5-3 in the SIAC in 2024.
Tuskegee entered the 2026 season looking to build on that foundation, but the Golden Tigers were 2-3 when James was dismissed. The team’s two victories came against Fort Valley State and Benedict, while its losses came against West Alabama, Jackson State and Morehouse.
The latest setback was a 30-28 loss to Morehouse on Saturday.
James finished his tenure with a 14-13 overall record and an 11-7 mark in SIAC play.
“We are extremely grateful to Coach James for his leadership, dedication, and service to Tuskegee University,” Reginald S. Ruffin, the university’s vice president of intercollegiate athletics and director of athletics, said in a statement. “Aaron is a proud Tuskegee alumnus who has represented his alma mater with tremendous pride.”
Ruffin thanked James for his commitment to Tuskegee’s student-athletes, football program and university community and wished him and his family success in the future.
James’ departure marks the end of a coaching tenure that began with considerable expectations. As a player, James was a standout quarterback for the Golden Tigers from 1998-2001, compiling a 42-5 record as a starter. He helped Tuskegee win three SIAC championships and led the program to a 12-0 season and an HBCU national championship in 2000.
Now, Tuskegee will look for a coach capable of restoring the program to championship contention.
The university said its national search will focus on finding a leader who understands Tuskegee’s tradition and expectations while also having a vision for competing in an increasingly changing college athletics landscape.
“Tuskegee Football has a proud championship tradition, and our expectations remain high,” Ruffin said. “Our commitment is to academic excellence, developing young men, competing for championships, graduating our student-athletes, and representing Tuskegee University with distinction.”
The next coach, Ruffin said, must embrace those expectations and understand “The Standard” associated with wearing Tuskegee’s crimson and old gold.
Higdon will take over with six regular-season games remaining. Tuskegee’s next scheduled game is Oct. 10 at Central State.
