Rutgers Athletic Director Pat Hobbs Pushed for Raise Amid Investigation into Personal Conduct
Former Rutgers Athletic Director Pat Hobbs resigned in August 2024, just as questions about his leadership and personal conduct came to light. Hobbs, who had served in his role for nine years, was reportedly seeking a salary increase beyond his already substantial $1.1 million annual pay. However, just as he made this request in June, Rutgers officials informed him of an investigation into his relationship with gymnastics coach Umme Salim-Beasley. What had been a largely private matter quickly became a public issue, casting a shadow over Hobbs' tenure and prompting his unexpected resignation.
Hobbs cited health concerns as the official reason for his resignation. But reports from NJ Advance Media soon revealed that his departure was likely linked to the investigation into an "improper, consensual" relationship between Hobbs and Salim-Beasley. The relationship had allegedly raised eyebrows at the university, especially since Hobbs, as Athletic Director, held the power to influence Salim-Beasley’s career and salary. Over the years, despite the gymnastics program's underperformance, Salim-Beasley’s pay significantly increased, from $95,000 in 2019 to $165,000 by 2024, with a contract set to reach $195,000 by 2028. This dramatic salary growth occurred while the team posted a poor 2-43 record in Big Ten play over the last five years.
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Concerns about the gymnastics program weren’t limited to Hobbs’ relationship with Salim-Beasley. Allegations of a toxic environment, including claims of bullying and favoritism within the team, had already surfaced. The university launched a formal investigation, led by former state comptroller Matt Boxer, into the overall conduct of the program. Hobbs' involvement added complexity to the inquiry, particularly as gymnasts expressed skepticism about whether their concerns were being taken seriously in light of his personal ties to Salim-Beasley.
Adding to the intrigue were peculiar incidents that highlighted the unusual dynamic between Hobbs and the coach. For example, during a winter social event, Hobbs reportedly declared "love" as the most important thing in life, while gazing at Salim-Beasley, creating an awkward scene for those present. Such moments further fueled speculation about their relationship, which many described as an "open secret."
By mid-August, as Hobbs was formally asked to turn over his electronic devices for the investigation, he opted to resign, claiming that health issues, specifically related to his heart, were the reason for his decision. However, the timing of his resignation—just two days after receiving the investigation notice—led to widespread speculation about the true motives behind his departure.
In the wake of Hobbs' resignation, Ryan Pisarri, his former chief of staff, stepped in as interim Athletic Director. The investigation into both Hobbs and the gymnastics program is ongoing, and its findings are expected in the coming months, leaving Rutgers grappling with yet another controversy under the public spotlight.
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