Chrissi Rawak Named President and CEO of USA Swimming

USA Swimming has announced the appointment of Chrissi Rawak as its new president and chief executive officer to succeed Tim Hinchey, who led the organization for seven years and two Olympic Games.

Rawak has served as athletic director for the University of Delaware for more than eight years. She was the first woman to hold the role and was awarded the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics’ athletic director of the year in 2024. Prior to that, she spent more than a decade at the University of Michigan, where she served as executive senior associate athletic director.

“I’m grateful to the USA Swimming Board for this incredible opportunity and the trust they’ve placed in me,” said Rawak. “I can’t wait to collaborate with our coaches, athletes, staff, alumni, volunteers, sponsors, and fans to strengthen the USA’s position as the world’s top swimming nation. We will focus on growing our sport across the country, continuing to prioritize athlete safety and education, and preparing for a historic performance at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.”

Rawak was a Division I athlete and coach at the University of Michigan, competing on the swimming and diving team from 1988–1992 and serving as the assistant women’s swimming coach from 1992–1997. During every season of her nine years at Michigan, the team were Big Ten champions and finished top 15 at the NCAA Championships.

Rawak will guide the organization during a pivotal stretch leading up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. USA Swimming Chief Operating Officer Shana Ferguson has been serving as as chief executive officer on an interim basis. Rawak will be in charge of revitalizing an Olympic program that won 28 swimming medals in Paris, matching its fewest since 2004, when there were 12% fewer overall medals awarded.

“Chrissi brings a proven track record of leading organizations and building winning teams,” said Chris Brearton, chair of the USA Swimming Board of Directors. “She has first-hand experience with our sport, both as a successful athlete and a coach. Her vision will help write the next chapter of American swimming excellence.”