NCAA extends Mark Emmert’s contract through 2020

The NCAA board unanimously voted to extend president Mark Emmert’s contract by three years, the organization announced Monday.

The NCAA Board of Governors unanimously voted to extend president Mark Emmert’s contract by three years, the organization announced Monday.

Emmert will now remain president through October 2020. The contract also has an option to extend his tenure into 2021.

“Mark has done an incredible job leading the Association through an unprecedented period of change and transformation,” said Kansas State University President Kirk Schulz, chair of the Board of Governors, in a statement. “I and the board feel strongly that Mark is integral in leading the Association forward as we navigate the complex and challenging way ahead, while better supporting student-athletes.”

Emmert took over the position in 2010 after serving as the University of Washington’s president for six years. In his time as president, he has dealt with a number of challenges to the NCAA, including Northwestern football players’ attempt to unionize and the Ed O'Bannon case. He was also forced to handle the NCAA's response to the Jerry Sandusky scandal at Penn State.

“I appreciate the Board of Governors’ unwavering support and partnership during this transformative time in college sports,” Emmert said. “I look forward to continuing to work together with colleges and universities, conferences and students as we further enhance the experience for our college athletes in the classroom, on the field and in life after sport.”