USC athletic director Mike Bohn suddenly resigned from his position Friday, effectively immediately. Bohn over the last four years has helped lead a turnaround for the Trojans, hiring head football coach Lincoln Riley and negotiating the program’s move from the Pac-12 to Big Ten beginning July 1, 2024.
Though Bohn cited health concerns as part of his departure, four former or current USC employees recently raised concerns about Bohn’s management during a recent top-to-bottom review of the athletic department conducted by an external firm, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The Trojans retained Gina Maistro Smith, a Philadelphia-based attorney from Cozen O’Connor, to conduct that review.
“In our singular pursuit of excellence, I am committed to ensuring we have the right leadership in place to achieve our goals,” said USC president Carol L. Folt in a Friday statement. As part of that commitment and as we prepare to move to the Big Ten, we conducted a thorough review of the athletics department, including its operations, culture, and strategy. Having built a strong foundation over the last few years, now is the time for new direction grounded in our values and in expertise needed to fulfill our aspirational vision for Trojan athletics.”
Bohn leaves the USC job after previously departing from the same role at Cincinnati to take the job out West. His ability to poach Riley, the highly regarded Oklahoma coach, allowed him to put his stamp on the athletic department. He also played a significant role in USC and nearby rival UCLA departing the Pac-12 for the Big Ten, a move that will come to fruition in about 13 months.
“In moving on, it is important now that I focus on being present with my treasured family, addressing ongoing health…
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