Bono Appointed Interim CEO at USA Gymnastics

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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowIndianapolis-based USA Gymnastics has named Mary Bono interim president and chief executive officer. Bono, a former Southern California congresswoman, previously served as a principal at Faegre Baker Daniels Consulting in Washington D.C. Parent firm Faegre Baker Daniels LLP has more than a dozen offices, including a major presence in Indianapolis.
Board Chair Karen Golz says "Mary is known to be an outstanding communicator who can coalesce people with differing views and perspectives. Mary is passionate about the sport, and having her as our interim president and CEO will move the organization forward."
A search committee to find a permanent leader for the organization was launched in September following Kerry Perry’s departure. Perry served less than a year as president and CEO.
The governing body has received increased attention in the wake of a massive sex abuse scandal centering on former Olympic-level and collegiate trainer Larry Nassar. Perry’s predecessor, Steve Penny, resigned in May of 2017 under heavy public scrutiny that the organization did not do enough to address the issue.
USA Gymnastics says it has been working to implement recommendations from outside investigator Deborah Daniels of Indianapolis-based Krieg DeVault LLP, who undertook an independent review of the organization’s safety policies and procedures in 2017. To date, USA Gymnastics says, the response has included amendments to its bylaws and appointing an entirely new board of directors. Golz says "most importantly, USA Gymnastics has been focused on athlete safety and well-being and ensuring that programs and protocols are in place to prevent all forms of abuse and to encourage athletes to speak up. This process has been challenging, but is a necessary step in moving the community forward."
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