The recent arrest of USA Swimming's Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Cory Hilliard, on charges of embezzlement and theft has once again brought the organization's hiring practices under scrutiny. This incident, coupled with the previous scandal involving Chrissi Rawak, the former athletics director at Delaware, has raised questions about USA Swimming's ability to make sound hiring decisions and manage its finances effectively.
Hilliard's alleged embezzlement of nearly $10,000 from the University of Colorado's athletics program is a serious breach of trust. As the administrator of the Nike Elite program, he was responsible for managing funds meant to provide high school athletes with mentorship and equipment. The theft of such funds not only violates ethical standards but also undermines the integrity of the program and the trust placed in Hilliard by both the university and the athletes.
This incident is particularly concerning given the recent history of USA Swimming. The organization's hiring of Rawak as CEO in February 2025 was marred by a lack of transparency, as Rawak failed to disclose a report involving her from the U.S. Center for SafeSport, which investigates abuse and misconduct in athletics. This led to her withdrawal from the role just nine days after her appointment, causing significant fallout within the swimming community.
The pattern of hiring controversies is a cause for concern. It raises questions about the due diligence and background checks conducted by USA Swimming during the hiring process. The organization's failure to thoroughly vet its hires has led to a series of scandals, each with its own implications for the integrity of the sport and the trust of its stakeholders.
The impact of these scandals extends beyond the financial and ethical implications. They also affect the reputation of USA Swimming and the swimming community at large. The calls for systemic change, as echoed by 23-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps, highlight the need for a comprehensive review of USA Swimming's hiring practices and financial management.
In the wake of these incidents, it is crucial for USA Swimming to conduct a thorough investigation into Hilliard's actions and take appropriate measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. This includes implementing stricter hiring procedures, enhancing financial controls, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. Only through such measures can USA Swimming restore the trust of its stakeholders and ensure the integrity of the sport.
