Michael Clemons (he/him) has worked in the running industry since 2012, managing and operating races nationwide. He currently serves as Director of Operations for Running USA, where he oversees the annual Running USA Industry Conference and leads the organization’s research and education initiatives. Michael has contributed to the operations of many major U.S. road races, including the World Athletics Championships Oregon22, New York City Marathon, Boston Marathon, Houston Marathon, Los Angeles Marathon, and the U.S. Olympic Marathon Team Trials. He also serves as the Finish Line Manager for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle.
Michael holds a PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development with a concentration in Sport Administration from the University of Louisville. His research focuses on the running industry, including why people run, how race organizations make decisions, and how the sport can continue evolving to become more inclusive and accessible.