Year In Review: Athletic director turnover

Four of the 39 current Division I athletic directors who began their jobs this year are at a Power Five school, reflecting a period of stability after several years of turnover and retirements. At press time, the AD position was vacant (or expected to be) at 19 schools, including Ohio State and Pepperdine, where Gene Smith and Steve Potts, respectively, have said they will retire at the conclusion of the 2023–24 academic year. Other than Ohio State, Arizona State is the only other Power Five school looking for an AD.

Zac Selmon

First day: Jan. 12

School (Conference): Mississippi State (SEC)

Most recent job: Deputy AD for external engagement and advancement, Oklahoma

Pete Bevacqua

First day: July 1 as special assistant to the retiring Jack Swarbrick before taking over in 2024

School (Conference): Notre Dame (ACC / Independent in football)

Most recent job: Chairman, NBC Sports Group

Troy Dannen (at right) usa today network

Jennifer Cohen

First day: Aug. 22

School (Conference): USC (Pac-12; Big Ten in 2024)

Most recent job: AD, Washington

Troy Dannen

First day: Oct. 9

School (Conference): Washington (Pac-12; Big Ten in 2024)

Most recent job: AD, Tulane

Source: Sports Business Journal research



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