NCAA president Mark Emmert is stepping down from his role, NCAA board of governors chair John J. DeGioia announced Tuesday.
Emmert will remain in his position until a new president is selected or until June 30, 2023, whichever comes first. Emmert’s decision to step down after 12 years at the helm of the NCAA was made in agreement with the board of governors, per DeGioia’s announcement.
“Throughout my tenure I’ve emphasized the need to focus on the experience and priorities of student-athletes,” Emmert said in a statement. “I am extremely proud of the work of the Association over the last 12 years and especially pleased with the hard work and dedication of the national office staff here in Indianapolis.”
The college sports landscape has experienced a significant amount of change in recent years, particularly as a result of name, image and likeness rights.
“With the significant transitions underway within college sports, the timing of this decision provides the Association with consistent leadership during the coming months plus the opportunity to consider what will be the future role of the president,” DeGioia said in a statement. “It also allows for the selection and recruitment of the next president without disruption.”
Emmert’s recent tenure has been marked by controversy, with the NCAA publicly criticized for inequities between the men’s and women’s Division I basketball tournaments. In response to the backlash, changes were made to equalize the 2022 tournament, and a gender equity report was executed to address other inequities in college sports.
Tuesday’s announcement comes after the Board of Governors approved a contract extension for Emmert through 2025.
In January, NCAA member schools adopted a new constitution, overhauling the structure of the governing body and collegiate athletics more broadly.