LSU Hires Ohio AD Julie Cromer as COO, Replacing Rutgers-Bound Zinn

Julie Cromer, formerly the athletic director at Ohio University since 2019, has been hired by LSU as the Executive Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Operating Officer, succeeding Keli Zinn who left for Rutgers. Cromer brings extensive experience, having led Ohio's teams to multiple Mid-American Conference championships and achieved strong financial growth through revenue generation and facility enhancements. At LSU, she will oversee daily athletics operations, enhance revenue streams, and lead capital projects, working closely with university leadership and community partners. She has held prominent roles on national boards including the NCAA Division I board and co-chaired the NCAA’s transformation committee, highlighting her leadership at the highest levels of college athletics. Cromer has received multiple awards including the 2024 NACDA Athletics Director of the Year and the 2023 Nike Executive of the Year by Women Leaders in College Sports. LSU's Director of Athletics Scott Woodward praised her as a respected leader whose experience and vision will drive LSU's continued growth and success.