USA Track & Field Foundation Welcomes Vin Lananna as Chief Executive Officer

The USA Track & Field Foundation announces a new chapter in its leadership as Tom Jackovic steps down as Chief Executive Officer after 23 years of dedicated service. The Foundation is pleased to welcome Vin Lananna as its new Chief Executive Officer, ushering in a new era focused on expanding opportunities for America’s track and field athletes. 

Since joining the Foundation in 2003, Jackovic played a pivotal role in transforming the organization into one of the sport’s leading philanthropic organizations. Under his leadership, the Foundation expanded its grant programs, strengthened partnerships, increased financial support for athletes, and helped countless members of the track and field community pursue excellence on the track, on the runway, in the ring, and beyond.  After two decades of outstanding leadership, Jackovic notified the Foundation Board of Directors in June of his decision to step down for personal reasons.   

Following a search, the Foundation is pleased to announce Vin Lananna as its next CEO. Lananna brings decades of distinguished leadership and experience to the role. He has built championship collegiate programs at Dartmouth College, Stanford University, the University of Oregon, and the University of Virginia developing generations of elite athletes while elevating each program.   

His leadership extends well beyond the collegiate ranks. Lananna served as Team USA’s head coach for the 2011 World Athletics Championships and the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. As an athlete, he competed in cross country and track and field at C.W. Post College from 1971 to 1975 and captained the 1974 team that placed fourth at the NCAA Division II Championships. 

Lananna also served as President of TrackTown USA, where he oversaw the successful organization of several of the sport’s most prestigious events, including the 2014 World Junior Championships, the 2015 USATF OutdoorChampionships, the 2016 World Indoor Championships, and the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team Trials. In 2016, he was elected President of USATF and served two terms. Lananna also spearheaded efforts to bring the 2022 World Athletics Outdoor Championships to Eugene.  No stranger to the Foundation, Lananna has served on its Board for over a decade. 

“Vin’s experience makes him uniquely qualified to lead the Foundation into its next chapter. We are confident his passion for athlete development and his deep understanding of our sport will help expand the Foundation’s impact for years to come,” said Bob Greifeld, Chairman of the USATF Foundation Board of Directors. 

Lananna expressed excitement about leading the Foundation. “I am excited to accept a new role in our sport. The Foundation has had a transformative impact on our sport, and I’m honored to work with a distinguished group of generous directors. I’m excited to help our sport in expanding opportunities for athletes, inspiring the next generation and eager to get started.” 

As the USA Track & Field Foundation begins this exciting new chapter, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to support athletes at every stage of their journey and strengthen the future of track and field across the United States. 

The USA Track & Field Foundation thanks Tom Jackovic for his extraordinary 23 years of service and leadership, welcomes Vin Lananna to the organization, and looks forward to the future.