Nathan Hatch, president of Wake Forest University, was elected Thursday as chairman of the NCAA Division I Board of Directors.

The position is a two-year term that will run through August 2014.

“This is truly a transformative time in college athletics and Division I sports,” Hatch said in a statement released by Wake Forest. “The NCAA has taken up the challenge to raise academic standards, streamline its enforcement process, and ensure the well-being of student athletes. I am honored to be selected chair of this important body as we seek to address these important issues and work to uphold the ideals of collegiate athletics.”

The Division I Board of Directors is comprised of 18 presidents and chancellors representing different Division I conferences. Under the chair’s leadership, the board directs the affairs of the division and has final authority on matters such as rules on personnel, amateurism, recruiting, eligibility, benefits, financial aid, and playing and practice seasons.

Hatch, president of Wake Forest since 2005, is a former provost at the University of Notre Dame. He has represented the Atlantic Coast Conference on the NCAA board since 2010.