Dr. Vivek Murthy Returns to USOPC Board

The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee has announced that Dr. Vivek Murthy has rejoined its board of directors, having been named in February of 2020 before stepping down in March of 2021 to reassume the role of Surgeon General of the United States he held previously from 2014–2017.

“It is a privilege and a joy to be able to support our Team USA athletes and the Olympic and Paralympic movements,” said Murthy. “We have an obligation to support the courageous individuals who represent our country in the field of competition, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this vital mission.”

Murthy, who served as the 19th and 21st Surgeon General, has been elected by the full USOPC board and is eligible for a four-year term with reelection to a second four-year term. Murthy joins Purdue President Mung Chiang on the board and the USOPC is still looking for someone to fill out the term of John Naber, an athlete-elected member who stepped down last year.

“It’s my honor to welcome Dr. Murthy back to the board and I know that the Olympic and Paralympic movements in the United States will benefit enormously from his leadership and commitment to Team USA,” said USOPC Chair Gene Sykes. “Vivek’s unique skillset and expertise will be invaluable as we further work to keep Team USA athletes healthy, both on the field of play and off, and help highlight the incredible commitment and virtue of Team USA athletes as they represent the U.S. on the global stage.”

The USOPC Board of Directors includes three representatives each from the Team USA Athletes’ Commission and National Governing Bodies Council, two at-large athlete seats, as well as five independent board members and American members of the IOC and members of the IPC Governing Board. Sarah Hirshland, USOPC CEO, serves as a non-voting member of the board.