Running USA Names Shawn Sullivan Executive Director

Running USA, the trade organization for the sport of road running and mass participation endurance events, has named Shawn K. Sullivan as its new executive director. Sullivan will lead the association’s strategy, membership growth and year-round programming in service of event operators, vendors, brands and industry partners across North America.

He will become the sixth leader in the nonprofit’s 26-year history and brings more than two decades of experience across collegiate athletics, endurance events, and strategic brand leadership. Most recently, he served as associate commissioner for branding, messaging and strategic initiatives for the Horizon League, where he spearheaded enhanced marketing, communications, licensing and innovation efforts and led the championship administration for cross country, and track and field.

“Shawn brings a proven record of strategic leadership, industry experience, and a deep commitment to the running community,” said Kathleen Titus, president of the Running USA Board of Directors. “His energy, vision, and collaborative approach make him the ideal leader to guide Running USA into its next phase of growth and innovation. We are confident he will continue to strengthen our mission and expand our impact across the endurance industry.”

“I am thrilled to join Running USA and do my best to take what running has provided me and contribute that to our industry,” Sullivan said. “The opportunity to serve in this role is a privilege. I am filled with gratitude and energized to work diligently and inclusively alongside dedicated professionals to serve our current and future members by engaging, educating and elevating the running industry and our constituents.”

Before the Horizon League, Sullivan spent nearly nine years at Ball State University, advancing to deputy athletics director for marketing and strategic initiatives. There, he oversaw all marketing, communications, ticketing, licensing and fan experience efforts. He previously held leadership roles at Northwestern University and the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), where he guided marketing, operations and licensing for 18 NCAA Division I programs.

Sullivan supports endurance brands and organizations through his consulting firm, The Voice for Good, LLC, and is also the public address announcer for the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever.