IRVING, Texas - American Conference Chief Operating Officer and longtime conference administrator Donna DeMarco has announced her retirement, effective January 1, 2027, concluding nearly four decades of service to the American.

DeMarco joined the conference staff in 1988 and was named Chief Operating Officer in 2017. She is one of the longest-tenured members of the conference office and has played a central role in the administration and operations of the American throughout her career. 

"Donna's career in collegiate athletics has been remarkable, and she will leave the industry universally respected for her leadership, hard work and resilient nature," American Conference Commissioner Tim Pernetti said. "There is no one in the industry like Donna and she will always be part of the American Conference family."

In her role as Chief Operating Officer, DeMarco has served as the conference's primary administrator, facilitating communication and collaboration between the conference office and its member institutions.

During her tenure, DeMarco has held a variety of leadership positions within the conference. She began her career as an administrative assistant in public relations before moving into elevated roles including director of championship operations, associate commissioner for basketball and associate commissioner for sport administration.

DeMarco's leadership and service also extended beyond the conference. She served on numerous NCAA media and operations committees, including the NCAA Division I Administration Cabinet and she was a member of the NCAA Division I Men's Soccer Committee from 1999-2003, serving as committee chair from 2000-03.

A swimming and diving student athlete at UConn, DeMarco earned a bachelor's degree in communications and journalism.