NACDA Announces Ohio State’s Ross Bjork as President for 2025
The National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) has officially announced that Ohio State University’s Athletic Director, Ross Bjork, will serve as its president for the 2025 term. This prestigious appointment marks a significant milestone not only for Bjork but also for the Buckeyes’ athletic department, which has seen a wave of growth and recognition under his leadership.
Bjork, who joined Ohio State in 2024 following a successful tenure at Texas A&M, brings decades of experience in collegiate athletics. His appointment by NACDA reflects both his professional achievements and the respect he commands among his peers across the nation. As president of NACDA, he will guide the organization in shaping national conversations around collegiate sports administration, policy, and leadership development.
“I’m honored and humbled to take on this role at such a pivotal time in college athletics,” Bjork said in a statement following the announcement. “NACDA has always played a crucial part in advancing the mission of athletic directors and supporting student-athletes, and I’m proud to contribute to that mission in a greater capacity.”
As president, Bjork will lead NACDA’s executive committee and help oversee initiatives that affect thousands of athletic administrators across all divisions of the NCAA, NAIA, and junior colleges. His role will include organizing educational programs, promoting professional development, and advocating for the interests of athletic departments at the national level.
Industry experts say Bjork’s selection comes at a critical time for collegiate sports. With ongoing debates about name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights, conference realignments, and the mental health of student-athletes, NACDA’s leadership is under pressure to provide meaningful guidance and innovative solutions. Bjork’s experience managing large athletic programs and navigating high-profile changes makes him a fitting choice for the organization’s top role.
During his time at Texas A&M and now at Ohio State, Bjork has earned a reputation as a forward-thinking administrator. His focus on student-athlete welfare, financial transparency, and strategic planning has drawn praise from both peers and university leadership. At Ohio State, he quickly began implementing new initiatives focused on community outreach and competitive excellence, further solidifying his standing as one of the nation’s top athletic directors.
Outgoing NACDA President Heather Lyke, athletic director at the University of Pittsburgh, expressed her confidence in Bjork’s ability to carry the torch. “Ross is not only a strong leader, but he also brings a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of college athletics. I know he’ll continue the progress we’ve made and take the organization to new heights.”
Ohio State University officials have also celebrated the announcement, viewing it as a testament to the university’s commitment to athletic excellence and national leadership in college sports.
Bjork will officially begin his term as NACDA President during the association’s 2025 annual convention. Until then, he will work closely with current leadership to ensure a smooth transition.
With Ross Bjork at the helm, NACDA enters 2025 with a leader known for vision, experience, and a clear dedication to the future of collegiate athletics.
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