Auburn's Jay Jacobs has been named a 2016-17 Athletics Director of the Year, the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics announced Thursday.
“I’m humbled by this honor, and I deeply appreciate NACDA and the distinguished selection committee for recognizing Auburn Athletics,” Jacobs said in a statement released by the university. “This award is a credit to the entire university, the Auburn Athletics Department staff, our coaches and student-athletes. I share it with each of them.”
Auburn University President Jay Gogue nominated Jacobs for the award.
“Under Jay’s leadership, our student-athletes are excelling in the classroom and in competition,” Gogue said. “Auburn Athletics is in a strong position financially. Our gameday experience was voted best in the SEC and Auburn has not had a major NCAA violation during Jay’s tenure. I’ve always said a great athletics department excels in each of these areas, and we are doing that thanks to Jay and his staff.”
Auburn athletics earned $9 million in 2015 and $15.2 million in 2016.
There was also great success in Tiger Athletics this year, with softball finishing second in the Women's College World Series in softball, equestrian winning a fourth national championship and a first-ever Elite Eight appearance from soccer.
The Tiger football team finished 8-5 and reached the Sugar Bowl, while the men's basketball team secured a winning record for the first time since 2009.
“I want to congratulate Jay on being named the NACDA Under Armour Athletics Director of the Year,” Malzahn said in a statement. “I’ve worked with Jay for seven years and what stands out to me is his love and passion for Auburn and his care and interest in our student-athletes. Jay takes the time to get to know each of them on a personal basis and really values their well-being on and off the playing field.”
“Auburn is a special place that means so much to my family and me,” Jacobs said. “The greatest honor of all is serving my alma mater and having the chance each day to impact the lives of our incredible student-athletes. They make me proud to be an Auburn man.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
