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
