Appalachian Athletic Conference Announces Leadership Transition

The Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) Council of Presidents announced today that Commissioner Bill Popp has resigned from his position with the conference. His final day as commissioner will be August 2, 2026.

Popp will transition to a new role supporting the Gulf South Conference, an NCAA Division II conference.

"Bill has served the Appalachian Athletic Conference with integrity, vision, and a deep commitment to our member institutions and student-athletes," said Dr. Paul J. Maurer, President of Montreat College and the Appalachian Athletic Conference's representative to the NAIA Council of Presidents. "On behalf of the AAC Council of Presidents, I want to thank Bill for his leadership and the significant contributions he has made to the conference."

Popp, the second full-time ACC commissioner, was appointed in July 2022 and led the conference through a period of significant growth and advancement. Under his leadership, the AAC expanded its membership, strengthened relationships across the NAIA, enhanced the championship experience for student-athletes, and continued to elevate the conference's national profile. His collaborative approach and commitment to excellence have positioned the conference for continued success.

The AAC Council of Presidents has launched a national search to identify the conference's next commissioner. The search will focus on selecting a visionary leader who will continue to advance the conference's mission of providing outstanding competitive and educational opportunities for its member institutions and student-athletes.

The Council of Presidents will oversee the leadership transition and will provide additional information regarding interim leadership and the commissioner search as details become available.