USC Athletics Department News: Jennifer Cohen Named New Athletic Director
USC Reportedly Hires Jennifer Cohen as Athletic Director, Amid Speculation and Rumors
Earlier on Monday morning, The Athletic’s Nicole Auerbach shared a rather ominous message on Twitter about an upcoming 1:00 p.m. meeting at Heritage Hall. Speculation was rampant about the impending announcement. As the saying goes, these ‘secrets’ usually don’t stay hidden for long in the world of media.
Pete Thamel of ESPN was quick to reveal the breaking news: USC was reportedly bringing in Jennifer Cohen from Washington to be their new Athletic Director. USC president Carol Folt’s choice had been a topic of widespread discussion. This move follows closely on the heels of USC’s anticipated shift to the Big Ten. Just a few months ago in May, former AD Mike Bohn stepped down after a relatively short tenure of less than four years.
“Washington’s Jen Cohen is one of the most qualified AD Candidates USC could’ve landed. She has some Southern California roots from her days as a San Diego State student before rising up the ranks at Washington.”
– Bruce Feldman of The Athletic (per his tweet)
Reports surfaced indicating concerns about the way Bohn managed affairs during his tenure. This led to an amicable parting of ways, paving the path for Folt to search for a new leader for the Athletics Department. Jennifer Cohen’s ties to Southern California are not insignificant. Graduating from San Diego State in 1991, she’s been a fixture on the West Coast her entire life, which gives her a natural connection to the region’s culture.
Back in 2016, Cohen officially took the reins as the Athletic Director at Washington. Described as charismatic by The Athletic, Cohen’s personality seems to align well with the vibrant energy of Los Angeles. Under her leadership in Seattle, many sports programs have flourished. A notable achievement was her role in recruiting Kalen DeBoer as Washington’s head football coach, successfully luring him away from Fresno State.
Looking ahead, if there’s a scenario where Lincoln Riley, USC’s current football head coach, were to venture into the NFL, Cohen’s track record suggests she’s more than capable of finding a suitable replacement. With her experience and achievements, she brings a promising outlook to USC’s Athletic Department.
In conclusion, the USC Athletic Department is making waves with its latest move. The appointment of Jennifer Cohen as the new Athletic Director brings fresh possibilities for the future. Amid swirling rumors and anticipation, USC’s decision has captured the attention of sports enthusiasts and media alike.