USA Swimming CFO Cory Hilliard placed on leave following embezzlement arrest

USA Swimming has placed Chief Financial Officer Cory Hilliard on leave following his arrest on charges of theft and embezzlement. The allegations stem from his previous role as an administrator for the University of Colorado’s Nike Elite program between 2021 and 2025.

According to the Boulder District Attorney’s Office, Hilliard is accused of misappropriating $9,510.50 for personal use. The funds were part of the Nike Elite program, which Hilliard managed to provide mentorship and equipment to high school athletes. The discrepancy was reportedly uncovered during a 2025 internal audit by the university.

In addition to felony charges of theft and embezzlement of public property, Hilliard faces a misdemeanor charge of first-degree official misconduct. USA Swimming stated it has terminated Hilliard’s access to all company data and financial controls and is conducting its own investigation.

This incident marks the second high-profile leadership scandal for USA Swimming in recent years. In early 2025, the organization’s incoming CEO, Chrissi Rawak, withdrew from her position shortly after her appointment when it was discovered she had not disclosed a report involving her from the U.S. Center for SafeSport.