| This study examined the lived experiences of Athletic Diversity and Inclusion Designees
(ADIDs) within a mid-major conference in the western United States. Grounded in hermeneutic
phenomenology, the study explored how ADIDs enact their responsibilities and how institutional
conditions shape that work. Using a qualitative design, data were collected through semistructured interviews with eight ADIDs from a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division
I conference. Data were analyzed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Findings
revealed four central themes: personal impact, layered institutional supports, role fragmentation,
and external political pressures. Collectively, these findings suggest that the sustainability of the
ADID role is shaped by the alignment, or lack of alignment, between institutional expectations,
structural support, and the distribution of DEI labor across leadership levels. When this
alignment is absent, the role becomes fragmented and dependent on individual commitment
rather than institutional design. Implications for practice include strengthening structural
alignment, dedicating time and resources to ADID responsibilities, distributing DEI labor across
leadership structures, and recognizing the influence of governance and policy environments on
the enactment of the role.
Keywords: DEI leadership, collegiate athletics, hermeneutic phenomenology, ADID,
institutional support |