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BIG 12 REALIGNMENT
As a result of his influence and expertise, Dr. Robert Robbins forged a path for the University of Arizona to join the Big 12 Conference, one of only four remaining “power conferences,” in 2024 upon the practical dissolution of the Pac-12 the preceding year.
REVENUE
Increased revenue including access to larger revenue streams from media rights deals, sponsorships, and conference-wide partnerships. Enhanced visibility and branding of the university nationally which will attract more students, faculty, and research opportunities, contributing to sustained institutional growth.
RECRUITING
Enhanced recruiting capabilities and institutional programs and resources to improve prospective recruiting pools of high-caliber, academically prepared student-athletes.
PARTNERSHIPS
Enabled collaborative opportunities with other major universities in the Big 12 to foster new partnerships not only in athletics but also in academic research, health and sustainability initiatives, and community engagement efforts.
STABILITY
Maintained institutional stability with a focus on long-term security against potential realignment challenges while supporting the University of Arizona’s ongoing development goals.
A LEADER IN ATHLETICS
PIONEER
Convened a groundbreaking and news-making “Future of College Athletics” summit in Washington, D.C. that featured numerous luminary figures and thought leaders across the complex and comingled landscape of higher education, politics, media, athletic conferences, law, and industry.
INNOVATOR
Boosted athletics program by increasing revenue while decreasing expenses and by way of exceptional hires that have included Desireé Reed-Francois, the National Athletic Director of the Year in 2024; head basketball coach Tommy Lloyd, the 2022 National Coach of the Year; head football coach Jedd Fisch, a National Coach of the Year Finalist in 2023; and his successor Brent Brennan.
From organizational and operational assessments and strategic hiring practices (athletics director and football/MBB coach), Dr. Robert C. Robbins positioned the Arizona Athletics Department for unparalleled growth and success.
LEADERSHIP & HIRING
Re-signed head women’s Basketball coach, Adia Barnes, to a multi-year deal after her run to the Women’s Final in 2021.
W. BASKETBALL
Arizona Softball, which made its 24th and 25th trips to the College World Series in Oklahoma City in recent years, welcomed new head coach and former All-American and Olympic medalist Caitlin Lowe, to replace legendary coach Mike Candrea.
SOFTBALL
Arizona Baseball earned a berth in the College World Series in 2021 and, under head coach and former Arizona Wildcat and MLB player and coach Chip Hale, won the Pac-12 regular season and tournament championship in 2024.
BASEBALL
Boosted athletics program by way of exceptional hires that have included Desireé Reed-Francois, the National Athletic Director of the Year in 2024; head basketball coach Tommy Lloyd, the 2022 National Coach of the Year; head football coach Jedd Fisch, a National Coach of the Year Finalist in 2023, and his successor Brent Brennan.
REVENUE SPORTS
Dr. Robbins at his best. Trust me, he's the reason the University of Arizona is in the Big 12.
Armen Keteyian, New York Times Bestselling Author
