HAMILTON – Colgate University President Brian W. Casey has been named to the inaugural College Swimming and Diving Advocacy Council, a national initiative launched by the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) to strengthen and advance collegiate swimming and diving programs across the country.
The Advocacy Council brings together distinguished leaders from higher education, business, law, technology, and media to provide strategic guidance, advocacy, and philanthropic leadership aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of college swimming and diving.
President Casey brings a unique blend of higher education leadership and firsthand student-athlete experience to the council. A former captain of the University of Notre Dame men's swim team, Casey has remained a strong advocate for the educational and developmental value of collegiate athletics throughout his career.
"Collegiate swimming and diving play a vital role in shaping student-athletes as leaders, scholars, and citizens," Casey said. "I'm honored to join this council and contribute to efforts that protect and strengthen these opportunities for future generations."
Casey has served as Colgate's 17th president since 2016. Under his leadership, Colgate has continued to emphasize academic excellence, student access and engagement, and the integral role of athletics in a holistic liberal arts education. Prior to Colgate, Casey served as President of DePauw University and held senior leadership roles at both Brown University and Harvard University. He earned his B.A. from the University of Notre Dame, a J.D. from Stanford Law School, and a Ph.D. from Harvard.
CSCAA Executive Director Samantha Barany noted that the council was formed during a pivotal moment for collegiate athletics.
"This Advocacy Council is a powerful step forward in supporting collegiate swimming and diving at a critical time," said Barany. "By engaging influential voices across higher education and the private sector, we aim to protect and expand opportunities for student-athletes while positioning the sport for long-term success."
The Advocacy Council will work closely with CSCAA leadership over the coming year to expand membership, establish strategic priorities, and champion initiatives that promote visibility, value, and viability for collegiate swimming and diving programs nationwide.
Founded in 1922, the CSCAA is the nation's first collegiate coaches association and is dedicated to advancing and safeguarding opportunities in college swimming and diving.
