10-08-2025
LSU makes major hire to fill key role in the athletic department
LSU made a critical hire in its athletic department. Julie Cromer was hired as the executive deputy athletic director and chief operating officer, as announced on Friday.
Cromer held the athletic director position at Ohio University since 2019 and was named the 2024 NACDA Athletics Director of the Year. She also brings SEC experience from her stint at Arkansas as the senior deputy athletics director and associate vice chancellor.
At LSU, Cromer will oversee daily operations of the athletic department and collaborate with senior leadership across the university. She will serve as the head administrator for all 21 varsity programs as well as lead revenue generation, capital projects, strategic initiatives, and more.
Cromer joins a staff still led by athletics director Scott Woodward. She fills the role of Keli Zenn, who was named the athletic director at Rutgers. Zinn was hired by former LSU president William. F Tate, who took the same position at Rutgers.
Zinn was heavily involved with LSU's football program as well as the university's plans to build a new basketball arena. Cromer will likely work on similar projects.
