Knight Commission Appoints Duke University’s General Counsel as Co-Chair

Knight Foundation President and CEO Alberto Ibargüen has announced that Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics member Pamela Bernard will join Len Elmore and Arne Duncan as a co-chair of the Knight Commission.

Bernard replaces Nancy Zimpher, who completed her eight-year term, including two years as co-chair, in December. “The Commission is deeply indebted to Nancy for her passionate commitment to good governance and presidential leadership in intercollegiate athletics,” said Ibargüen. “We’re also fortunate to have leaders of Pam’s caliber and expertise ready to step into this role. Pam’s deep expertise in higher education legal issues will be particularly valuable to the Commission at a time when litigation challenges and equity are top issues in Division I.”

Bernard is the Vice President and General Counsel of Duke University.  She is a former president of the National Association of College & University Attorneys (NACUA) and received NACUA’s Distinguished Service Award for her contributions to the field of higher education law practice.

“College athletics are undergoing a sweeping transition where the intersection of legal, educational, health and safety issues is at a critical juncture,” said Knight Commission Co-Chair Len Elmore.  “Pam Bernard’s understanding of the national legal landscape will be invaluable in shaping the Commission’s direction and it will be an honor to serve as co-chair with her.”