Running USA appointed Shawn Sullivan as its new executive director. Sullivan will lead the trade association’s strategy, membership growth and year-round programming in service of event operators, vendors, brands, and industry partners nationwide.
Sullivan brings over two decades of experience to the non-profit 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 & field,” said Running USA in a media release.
Sullivan is also the public address announcer for the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever.
“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.”
In his new role, Sullivan will oversee member services, research and education initiatives, strategic partnerships, and Running USA’s flagship events, including the 2026 Running USA Industry Conference presented by Haku. His priorities will include expanding member value, strengthen data and research resources and advancing professional development and industry collaboration year-round.
“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.”
Prior to joining the Horizon League, Sullivan spent nearly nine years at Ball State University, advancing to deputy athletics director for marketing and strategic initiatives. In that role, he oversaw all marketing, communications, ticketing, licensing, and fan experience efforts. His earlier experience includes 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.
Images courtesy Running USA
