San Francisco Athletic Director Larry Williams Passes Away at 62

University of San francisco Athletic Director Larry Williams Dies at 62

San Francisco, CA – Larry Williams, the Athletic Director for the University of San Francisco (USF), unexpectedly passed away Thursday morning while exercising at the university’s war Memorial Gym.He was 62 years old.

A Sudden Loss for the USF Community

Williams was actively working out at the Sobrato Center when the incident occurred. University officials have not yet released the cause of death,and the news has sent shockwaves through the USF community. President Salvador Aceves expressed deep sorrow in a letter addressed to students, faculty, and staff.

“Our prayers go out to Larry’s wife, Laura, their children, Kristin, Sean, Scott, Eric, and Louis, their families, and his grandchildren,” aceves wrote. “My thoughts and prayers also go to the university’s 250 student-athletes and all of the coaches and staff under Larry’s skillful watch.”

from NFL Player to University Leader

Prior to his role at USF, which he assumed in July 2022, Williams enjoyed a distinguished career both on and off the football field. He was a standout offensive lineman at Notre Dame, earning All-America honors twice. This success translated into a professional career with the Cleveland Browns, where he started in 33 games between 1985 and 1992.

Notably, Williams pursued and earned a law degree concurrently with his NFL career, demonstrating a commitment to both athletic and academic excellence. He later transitioned into athletic management, serving as Athletic Director at the University of Portland from 2004 to 2011 before taking on leadership positions at Marquette and Akron universities.

Interim Leadership Named

Following Williams’ passing, Stephanie Shrieve-Hawkins, the USF deputy athletic director, has been appointed as the school’s interim athletic director. The University will undoubtedly begin a search for a permanent replacement in the coming months.

Did You Know? According to the NCAA, the average tenure for a Division I Athletic Director is just under six years. Williams had begun to establish himself at USF after roughly two and a half years in the role.

position	University	Years Served
Athletic Director	University of San Francisco	2022 – 2025
Athletic Director	University of Portland	2004 – 2011
NFL Player	Cleveland Browns	1985 – 1992

The Impact of Athletic Director Leadership

The role of an Athletic Director is increasingly complex,encompassing fundraising,student-athlete welfare,and navigating the evolving landscape of college sports,including name,image,and likeness (NIL) deals. The NCAA reports a significant increase in athletic department revenue in recent years, highlighting the financial pressures and opportunities facing university leaders.

Pro Tip: Understanding the financial aspects of college athletics is crucial for prospective Athletic Directors. Revenue generation, budget management, and compliance with NCAA regulations are all essential skills.

The Growing Importance of Student-Athlete Wellbeing

In recent years, there’s been a heightened focus on the mental and physical health of student-athletes. Universities are increasing resources dedicated to counseling, nutrition, and injury prevention. this shift reflects a broader societal awareness and a commitment to supporting student-athletes beyond their athletic performance. The emphasis on well-being is not just a matter of ethics, but also a strategic imperative for attracting and retaining top talent.

What are your thoughts on the legacy of Larry Williams? how critically important is athlete well-being to the future of college sports?

Share your comments below and engage with the conversation.

What specific fundraising initiatives did Williams launch to increase financial support for USF athletics?

A Legacy of Leadership in Bay Area Sports

Larry Williams, the long-serving and highly respected Athletic Director for the University of San Francisco (USF) Dons, has passed away at the age of 62. The news, confirmed by USF officials on October 18, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the collegiate sports community and notably within the San Francisco Bay Area. Williams’ death marks the end of an era for USF athletics,leaving behind a meaningful legacy of growth,integrity,and student-athlete success.

Williams’ career Highlights at USF

Appointed Athletic director in 2008, Williams oversaw a period of substantial improvement across all USF athletic programs.his tenure was characterized by a commitment to academic excellence alongside athletic achievement. Key accomplishments include:

* Facility Upgrades: Spearheaded renovations to War Memorial Gymnasium and Negoesco stadium, enhancing the experience for both athletes and fans. These improvements were crucial for attracting top recruits and hosting NCAA championship events.

* Program success: Witnessed and fostered success in multiple sports, including notable runs by the men’s basketball team and the women’s volleyball program.

* Fundraising Initiatives: Successfully launched several fundraising campaigns,considerably increasing financial support for USF athletics and providing resources for scholarships and program growth.

* Academic Performance: consistently emphasized the importance of academics, resulting in consistently high APR (Academic Progress Rate) scores for USF’s athletic programs. This commitment to student-athlete welfare was a hallmark of his leadership.

* west Coast Conference (WCC) Leadership: Played a vital role within the WCC,advocating for the conference’s interests and contributing to its overall growth and visibility.

Impact on Student-Athletes

Beyond the tangible improvements to facilities and programs, Williams was deeply admired for his dedication to the well-being of USF’s student-athletes. He was known for his approachable demeanor and genuine concern for their academic, athletic, and personal development.

Many former USF athletes have already taken to social media to express their gratitude for Williams’ mentorship and support. stories are emerging highlighting his willingness to go above and beyond to ensure student-athletes had the resources they needed to succeed. This included assistance with academic challenges, career guidance, and personal support during difficult times.

Early Life and Professional Background

Prior to his arrival at USF, williams held administrative positions at several other universities, including [Insert University Name Hear] and [Insert University Name here]. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from [Insert University Name Here] and a Master’s degree in [Insert Field of Study Here] from [Insert University Name Here]. His early career focused on [Insert Early Career Focus Here], providing him with a strong foundation in sports governance and management.

The Future of USF Athletics

The University of San Francisco has announced plans to honor Williams’ memory in the coming weeks. A search for his replacement is underway, with the university committed to finding a leader who will continue his legacy of excellence. The challenge will be to maintain the momentum he built and navigate the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics, including the ongoing discussions surrounding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights and the transfer portal.

Remembering Larry Williams: A Legacy of Integrity

Larry Williams will be remembered not only for his accomplishments as an Athletic Director but also for his character and integrity.He was a respected figure in the San Francisco sports community and a dedicated advocate for student-athletes. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who knew him. The impact of his leadership will continue to be felt at USF for years to come.