UGA President Michael F. Adams has been elected chair of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Executive Committee. The Executive Committee is the highest governance body in the NCAA and is comprised of 13 campus presidents and chancellors who oversee association-wide issues. The committee is charged with ensuring that each division operates consistently with the basic purposes, fundamental policies and general principles of the association.
“I am honored by this election and appreciate the confidence that my colleagues have shown in me,” Adams said. “I see this as one more opportunity for the University of Georgia to take a leadership role by working for the advancement and betterment of intercollegiate athletics across the nation.”
Adams, who also serves on the NCAA Division I board of directors, succeeds Walt Harrison, president of the University of Hartford. He also has served as chair of the Division I Budget Committee, chair of the Executive Committee Finance Committee and chair of the Executive Committee Working Group on Membership Growth. He recently completed a term as president of the Southeastern Conference and is a member of the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics.
“As a member of the Executive Committee for a number of years, Mike has provided great leadership to Division I and the entire association,” said Myles Brand, NCAA president. “His understanding of the relationship between intercollegiate athletics and higher education is especially valuable now as he steps into the role of chair of the Executive Committee.”
“Dr. Adams’ appointment as chair of the NCAA Executive Committee is consistent with the leadership roles he has played in intercollegiate athletics over the years including his term as president of the Southeastern Conference and as chair of the NCAA’s Finance Committee,” said Mike Slive, SEC commissioner. “His leadership and dedication to the principles of higher education and his understanding of intercollegiate athletics make him an excellent choice for this very important national leadership position.”
Adams will serve a two-year term as chair of the Executive Committee.