Li Li Leung, who led USA Gymnastics in the wake of the Nassar scandal, to step down in December
Li Li Leung, the woman who led USA Gymnastics through a tumultuous period following the Larry Nassar sexual abuse scandal, has announced her decision to step down at the end of the year. This news comes as the organization finds itself in a much more stable position than when Leung took over in 2019.
When Leung first assumed the role of CEO and president of USA Gymnastics, the organization was facing numerous challenges. It had filed for bankruptcy due to lawsuits from women who accused Nassar of sexual abuse. The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee was considering revoking USA Gymnastics’ status as the national governing body for the sport, and sponsors were pulling out.
Despite the daunting circumstances, Leung was able to turn things around through a combination of empathy, strategic thinking, and hard work. Under her leadership, the lawsuit with Nassar survivors was settled in 2021, and the USOPC stopped the decertification process. Corporate partners reengaged with the organization, and a new culture shift focused on putting athletes first was successfully implemented.
The success of the women’s and men’s gymnastics programs at the Paris Olympics further solidified the positive changes that had taken place under Leung’s leadership. With the organization in a much stronger position now, Leung believes it is the right time to step down and allow someone else to continue building on the progress that has been made.
Leung emphasized that her decision to leave is not due to burnout but rather a desire to take a break and ensure a smooth transition for her successor ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The search for a new CEO and president will begin soon, and Leung will be involved in the hiring process.
Despite the challenges she faced when she first took on the role, Leung has no regrets about her time at USA Gymnastics. She believes that the organization is now in a much better place than it was when she started, and she is proud of the progress that has been made.
As Leung prepares to leave her position later this year, she reflects on the cultural changes that have been implemented and the impact they have had on the organization. While she acknowledges that cultural change is an ongoing process, she is confident that USA Gymnastics is now on a more stable and positive path.
In conclusion, Leung’s tenure at USA Gymnastics has been marked by significant achievements and a transformation of the organization’s culture. As she prepares to pass the torch to her successor, she leaves behind a legacy of resilience, strength, and unwavering support for the athletes.
