Syracuse University Director of Athletics, John Wildhack, announced his retirement effective July 1, 2026, after an illustrious 46-year career that includes a decade leading Orange Athletics and over 36 years at ESPN. Wildhack expressed that it has been the greatest honor of his career to guide Syracuse Athletics, emphasizing the profound impact Syracuse University has had on his life. He highlighted the achievements during his tenure, such as championship-caliber facilities, record-setting academic accomplishments, and the success of student-athletes on and off the field.
A graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, Wildhack returned to Syracuse in 2016 after a successful career at ESPN, where he progressed from production assistant to executive vice president for programming and production. At Syracuse, he has overseen significant investments in the athletics facilities, including the modernization and renaming of the JMA Wireless Dome, alongside the enhancement of the John A. Lally Athletics Complex, which serves all 20 Syracuse sports teams and over 600 student-athletes.
Chancellor Kent Syverud praised Wildhack for his relentless pursuit of excellence in all areas of Syracuse Athletics, noting his support for student-athletes as both competitors and scholars. Wildhack’s leadership has led to unprecedented academic success, with Syracuse achieving its highest recorded Academic Progress Rate scores since measurements began.
In addition to his role at Syracuse, Wildhack has been influential in college athletics discussions, currently serving as the Atlantic Coast Conference’s representative on the prestigious NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Committee, an appointment he received in May 2025. He has also held the position of chair of ACC Athletic Directors, advocating for student-athlete welfare and the sustainable growth of college sports.
Wildhack expressed deep pride in the achievements of Syracuse’s athletic and academic programs over the past decade, thanking Chancellor Syverud, the Board of Trustees, and the athletics staff for their steadfast support. He also expressed gratitude to the fans and donors of Syracuse Athletics, recognizing their crucial role in the pursuit of excellence.
The Wildhack family has a rich connection to Syracuse University, with multiple family members, including his sons, being graduates or current students. As he prepares for retirement, Wildhack concluded with an emotional note about his lasting dedication to Syracuse University and its athletic programs, stating, “I will always be forever Orange.”
Details regarding the search for Wildhack’s successor will be announced in due course, marking the beginning of a transitional period for Syracuse Athletics.