University of Minnesota President Eric Kaler was named the NCAA's Division I board of directors chair, the Gophers announced Friday.

Kaler, who spent two years as the Big Ten Presidents and Chancellors board chair, will now be leading a 24-member group, which represents the governing body of Division I athletics.

"I look forward to this new role and the opportunity to provide leadership to the division as we navigate the constantly changing landscape," Kaler said in a statement. "As we do, our focus will remain on ensuring the well-being of student-athletes at all institutions."