Stanford University has announced a major leadership change by appointing John Donahoe, the chief executive officer of Nike, as its new Jaquish & Kenninger Director of Athletics. Donahoe, who is also a Stanford alumnus, will officially assume the position on 08 September 2025, taking over from Bernard Muir, who is stepping down after an impressive 13-year tenure.
University president Jonathan Levin emphasised the need for a 'distinctive leader' capable of guiding Stanford's athletics department through a period of unprecedented transformation. He added, 'John has the vision, experience and strategic acumen required to usher in a new era for college athletics at Stanford'.
