Rutgers Athletic Director Steps Down Amid Controversy

Pat Hobbs, the former athletic director at Rutgers University, reportedly sought a pay increase on his annual $1.1 million salary shortly before resigning amid controversy. According to NJ Advance Media, Hobbs, who resigned on August 16, 2023, had cited health concerns for his departure following a nine-year tenure. However, subsequent revelations regarding his involvement with the university’s gymnastics program have surfaced, bringing his decision into question.

A detailed report by NJ Advance Media disclosed that Hobbs was under investigation for a possible improper, consensual relationship with Umme Salim-Beasley, the gymnastics coach at Rutgers. The investigation was reportedly initiated during a June meeting where Hobbs had requested a pay raise. Days prior to his resignation, Hobbs was directed by the Saiber law firm to turn over electronic devices used for university-related business.

The relationship between Hobbs and Salim-Beasley, described as “an open secret” by a former Rutgers employee, reportedly involved multiple out-of-state trips and public interactions that drew attention from team members. Members of the gymnastics team raised concerns about a “toxic environment” under Salim-Beasley’s leadership—a situation New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy described as “very disturbing.” Rutgers subsequently tasked former state comptroller Matt Boxer with investigating these allegations, with results expected next month.

The relationship issue is compounded by the significant salary increases Salim-Beasley received over her tenure, despite the gymnastics team’s underwhelming performance in the Big Ten Conference. Her salary, initially set at $95,000 in 2019, has increased to $165,000 in 2023 and is projected to reach $195,000 by 2028, per NJ Advance Media’s report.

Notably, sports programs at universities typically maintain a clear distinction between personal and professional relationships, especially where power dynamics could influence career opportunities. The university’s policy strongly discourages romantic relationships between employees where a power imbalance exists.

Hobbs’s resignation came after a former chairman of the Rutgers Board of Governors, Mark Angelson, informed him that his salary increase request would not be entertained amid the ongoing investigation. On August 14, Hobbs was officially informed of the investigation, prompting his resignation two days later.

After resigning, Hobbs conveyed to Rutgers University President Jonathan Holloway that recent medical advice necessitated his departure due to the “requirements of the position.” In his message, Hobbs acknowledged the inconvenient timing of his departure, emphasizing that “other factors need to take precedence.”