U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee CEO Sarah Hirshland will remain in her role beyond the 2008 Los Angeles Games after receiving a five-year contract extension on Wednesday.

Hirshland’s “accountability, transparency, and inclusivity has transformed our organization,” chairman Gene Sykes wrote in a letter to the USOPC community. “Notably, she has prioritized athlete protection, rights, and support, ensuring a safe and empowering environment for all.”

Terms of the contract with not disclosed. Hirshland, 49, made $1.1 million in 2022, according to the USOPC.

When COVID-19 delayed the 2020 Tokyo Olympics until the following year, Hirshland took a voluntary pay reduction.

Hirshland was criticized at times for her handling of the pandemic, but she was involved in the decision to postpone the Games rather than cancel them, which would have been a major economic hit nationally and internationally.

Regarding the Larry Nassar sex-abuse crisis happening when she took over in August 2018, Hirshland helped broker a $380 million settlement involving the USOPC, USA Gymnastics and the gymnasts abused by Nassar.

When Olympic athletes said they felt they were only valued for their results, Hirshland altered the federation’s mission to focus more on the athletes’ well-being.

Up next for Hirshland will be preparing for the Los Angeles Games, the first Summer Olympics since 1996 to be held in the United States.

–Field Level Media