INDIANAPOLIS — Jessica Goerke, University of San Diego Deputy Athletic Director, Chief Operating Officer, and Senior Woman Administrator, is one of 21 administrators that have been selected by the NCAA for its 2026-27 Pathway Program, a yearlong national initiative designed to prepare senior-level athletics administrators for their next career step as directors of athletics or conference commissioners.
“Jessica’s leadership has been instrumental in our growth over the last two years,” said Kimya Massey, USD Associate Vice President/Executive Director of Athletics. “Her oversight of our Facilities, Sports Medicine, Sports Performance, Equipment Services, Academics, Student-Athlete Development and Compliance offices alongside her duties as a sport administrator have helped raise the standard for our department while providing an enhanced student-athlete experience.”
The Pathway Program, led by NCAA leadership development, is an intensive, experiential learning opportunity for selected participants who work at an NCAA school or conference in Divisions I, II or III. It is designed to prepare administrators for executive-level leadership roles within intercollegiate athletics.
During the yearlong program, participants will examine how values shape leadership philosophy and execution within college athletics and higher education. The curriculum builds practical knowledge in budgeting, strategic planning and fundraising to support both current responsibilities and future roles. The experience includes structured mentorship with senior leaders such as athletics directors, conference commissioners and school presidents, providing personalized guidance and industry insight. Grounded in experiential learning, the program challenges participants to address current and emerging issues across the collegiate athletics landscape. This approach ensures they are not only prepared for the demands of executive leadership but also positioned to cultivate cultures of excellence within their organizations.
The 2026-27 cohort is meeting June 21-25 for a weeklong education session in Indianapolis. Division I participants will reconvene Oct. 4-9 in Indianapolis for additional development and governance meeting observation. Division II and III participants will reconvene Oct. 18-23 in Indianapolis. The program will conclude in the summer of 2027 at the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics convention in Orlando, Florida.
