NYC Gazette

St. John's Law School has announced that James Pitaro, an alumnus from the class of 1994 and current Chairman of ESPN, will be the speaker at the school's commencement ceremony on May 18, 2025. Dean Jelani Jefferson Exum expressed enthusiasm about Pitaro's participation in the event.

Pitaro's career spans over three decades at the intersection of media, sports, and technology. He began his professional journey in private law practice before moving to Yahoo, where he rose to become Head of Sports & Entertainment and later Vice President of Media. During his tenure there, he was recognized by Sports Business Journal as one of its "Forty Under 40" for his significant achievements in sports media partnerships.

In 2010, Pitaro joined The Walt Disney Company as Co-President of Disney Interactive. He played a crucial role in revitalizing Disney's digital media and gaming division and held several key positions within the company. In 2018, he became President of ESPN and Co-Chair of Disney Media Networks.

Since becoming Chairman in 2020, Pitaro has worked to maintain ESPN's status as a leading sports broadcasting network with notable programming such as Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli and Sunday Night Baseball. This year marks the launch of Flagship, ESPN’s new streaming service aimed at transforming the industry.

Beyond his professional achievements, Pitaro contributes to various industry and charitable boards while supporting St. John's Law School and its students. In recognition of his career success outside traditional legal practice, he received the Dean Harold F. McNiece Award from St. John's Law School in 2023.

Dean Jefferson Exum remarked on Pitaro's return to St. John's: “We’re delighted that James Pitaro will return home to St. John’s to speak at the Law School’s Commencement Exercises.” She emphasized that his leadership experience offers graduates valuable insights into law and business while highlighting community service as essential for a successful career.