Hatch to Chair NCAA Board

Photo: Wake Forest University

The NCAA Division I board of directors has elected Nathan O. Hatch, the president of Wake Forest University, as its chairman.

The election took place today during the board’s first meeting of the 2012-2013 academic year. Effective immediately, the position is a two-year term that runs through August 2014.

“This is truly a transformative time in college athletics and Division I sports,” Hatch said in a press release. “The NCAA has taken up the challenge to raise academic standards, streamline its enforcement process, and ensure the well-being of student athletes. I am honored to be selected chair of this important body as we seek to address these important issues and work to uphold the ideals of collegiate athletics.”

The Division I board of directors is comprised of 18 presidents and chancellors representing different Division I conferences. Under the chair’s leadership, the board directs the affairs of the entire division and has final authority on all Division I matters.

Hatch became Wake Forest's president in July 2005. He has represented the ACC on the NCAA Division I Board of Directors since April 2010 and has served on the executive cmmittee since August 2010. He was also appointed to the Division I Bowl Licensing Task Force in May 2011.

Hatch is also the chair of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU) and recently served on the board of the American Council on Education. As a board member of the United Way of Forsyth County, he also served as chairman of the 2010 United Way Campaign.