The LEAD1 Association, which represents the athletics directors of the 130-member schools of the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), announced a series of initiatives to best prepare for the unknown financial challenges that the FBS now faces due to COVID-19. LEAD1 is implementing the following initiatives:

  • Cutting payroll — President and CEO of LEAD1, Tom McMillen, and other association senior management will be cutting their pay by 20 percent;
  • Postponing the LEAD1 annual fall meeting and LEAD1 Institute until 2021 (dates to be determined);
  • Pursuing all available aid offered under the CARES Act such as payroll tax deferrals, loans and payroll assistance;
  • Curtailing all spending (including travel) except for essential expenditures such as rent and computer network services;
  • Adopting virtual offerings to attract potential sponsors including the previously announced Webinar Forum series, weekly athletic director town hall meetings and virtual happy hours; and
  • Holding all association meetings via video conferencing or teleconferencing.

“We are taking the necessary steps to best prepare for the financial challenges our industry is now facing,” said Tom McMillen. “Taking a 20 percent pay cut and canceling events will help us try to weather the storm. These actions underscore the many financial sacrifices that our member schools have already taken.”

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