University of Hawaiʻi President Wendy Hensel has been appointed to the College Football Playoff Board of Managers, representing the Mountain West Conference, a move that underscores the conference’s growing influence in national collegiate athletics.
A New Era for the Mountain West
Hensel will join a select group of leaders tasked with governance and strategic direction of the College Football Playoff, the organization that oversees the postseason structure and major decision‑making for Division I football.
The CFP Board of Managers holds exclusive authority over matters such as officer appointments, budget approvals, and long‑term policy, making the board a pivotal body for the sport’s future.
Rich Clark, executive director of the College Football Playoff, praised Hensel’s extensive experience in higher education and her commitment to student‑athlete success, noting that her perspective will help shape decisions that keep athletes at the center of the conversation.
Gloria Nevarez, commissioner of the Mountain West, highlighted Hensel’s leadership abilities and her dedication to the conference’s athletic programs, expressing confidence that she will be a strong advocate for the league’s interests.
Hensel’s appointment comes as the University of Hawaiʻi prepares to transition to full membership in the Mountain West Conference on July 1, 2026, a milestone that follows years of participation since 2012.
UH Mānoa, the flagship campus of the University of Hawaiʻi, sponsors 21 varsity sports and supports roughly 500 student‑athletes, making the university the only NCAA Division I athletics program in the state.
In her new role, Hensel says she aims to ensure that the University of Hawaiʻi has a seat at the table during a period of transformation in intercollegiate athletics, emphasizing that student‑athletes must remain central to all decisions.
Looking Ahead
The inclusion of a university leader from a geographically distinct member brings fresh insights to the board, potentially influencing policies around scheduling, revenue distribution, and competitive balance as the sport navigates an era of realignment.