Two University of Notre Dame employees have been named to the 2026 Michiana Forty Under 40 class, an annual recognition honoring emerging leaders for their professional accomplishments and community involvement. Among this year's honorees are Kevin Cassidy, associate athletics director for revenue generation and fan experience, and Jamila Lee-Johnson, assistant dean for inclusive excellence.
In his role with Notre Dame Athletics, Cassidy oversees marketing and fan experience initiatives, helping shape the atmosphere at home football games while leading strategic efforts to drive ticket revenue and fan engagement. His work contributes to creating memorable experiences for thousands of fans who visit campus each year.
Outside of Notre Dame, Cassidy has volunteered as a mentor with The Clubhouse, a mentorship community for emerging sports industry professionals. Through one-on-one mentoring and career development guidance, he helps aspiring leaders build connections, develop skills, and navigate careers in the sports industry.
“Working at the University of Notre Dame has given me the opportunity to collaborate with talented people, serve passionate fans, and contribute to a university that means so much to our local community and people around the world,” Cassidy said.
“I’m excited to continue serving our passionate fans and the local community to make a positive impact.”
As the inaugural assistant dean for inclusive excellence, Lee-Johnson leads programs designed to expand access to graduate education and research opportunities. She oversees Our Futures, a weekend program that introduces undergraduate students to graduate education at Notre Dame, and the Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP). She also co-leads ASPiRE-ND, which helps recent college graduates gain the research experience needed to pursue doctoral degrees in biomedical sciences.
Her work in the community includes mentoring young women and co-leading a program that prepares emerging leaders to serve on nonprofit boards and foundations. Lee-Johnson also serves on the board of the Jaden Sebastian Blake Foundation, established in honor of her brother. Since 2022, the foundation has collected more than 2,200 units of blood. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
“When I moved to South Bend, I knew that I wanted to not only do my best in my current role, but also do work in the community and surrounding areas,” Lee-Johnson said. “I am grateful for my nominators of this award, mentors, family, and friends who continue to support me and all of my aspirations.”
The annual Michiana Forty Under 40 program recognizes professionals under the age of 40 who have distinguished themselves through their careers and community involvement. This year's class was honored at a ceremony on May 29.
Originally published by at publicaffairs.nd.edu on June 22, 2026.