INDIANAPOLIS—University presidents from the Southeastern and Atlantic Coast conferences have been named the next chairs of the NCAA Executive Committee and Division I Board of Directors.

Michael Adams, president of the University of Georgia, was selected today by the Executive Committee as its next chair. Adams, who also serves on the Division I Board of Directors, replaces outgoing chair Walter Harrison, president of the University of Hartford.

“As a member of the Executive Committee for a number of years, Mike has provided great leadership to Division I and the entire Association,” said NCAA President Myles Brand. “His understanding of the relationship between intercollegiate athletics and higher education is especially valuable now as he steps into the role of chair of the Executive Committee.”

The Executive Committee is the highest governance body in the NCAA and is composed of 13 campus presidents and chancellors who oversee Association-wide issues. The committee is charged with ensuring that each division operates consistently with the basic purposes, fundamental policies and general principles of the Association.

Brand praised Harrison for his contributions. “The Executive Committee has had the good fortune to have had the leadership of Walt Harrison over the last two years,” Brand said. “His voice will be missed.”

James Barker, president of Clemson University, was selected today by the Division I Board of Directors as its next chair. He replaces outgoing chair Philip Austin, president of the University of Connecticut.

“The Division I Board of Directors is fortunate to have Jim Barker assume the position of chair,” said Brand. “He brings a broad range of leadership from the campus, conference and national levels to this new role.”

The Division I Board of Directors is the highest governance body in Division I and is comprised of 18 campus presidents and chancellors representing Division I athletic conferences.

Brand thanked Austin for his service. “Phil Austin has made a great contribution to the Board over an extended period of time,” Brand said.

Adams and Barker will serve two-year terms as chairs of their respective committees.