Boston – WEBWIRE – Friday, December 8, 2023
The University of Massachusetts Boston announced a pledge of $10 million from Boston-based New Balance Athletics, Inc. to launch the New Balance Institute for Innovative Leadership in Sport. This generous donation will kickstart the institute and ensure its continuous presence at the UMass Boston campus. This investment further strengthens the New Balance Sport Leadership and Administration program that was established at UMass Boston with a $5 million gift in 2018.
We are thrilled about this partnership! said UMass Boston Chancellor Marcelo Surez-Orozco, who praised the academic collaboration with New Balance. The interdisciplinary approach of the program equips students with the skills needed for successful careers in sports management, while advocating for social justice and increased diversity in sports. We believe that UMass Boston education has the power to create a positive effect and serve the greater good.
With its roots in advancing equitable practices and social responsibility in the sports industry, the Sport Leadership and Administration program at UMass Boston has seen tremendous growth. Since its inception in 2019, the program has garnered 127 students majoring in sport leadership and administration, with 34 students already graduated, contributing 10,000 hours to sport industry internships. The establishment of the New Balance Institute aims to expand internship and employment opportunities for these students.
UMass President Marty Meehan expressed gratitude to New Balance for their remarkable investment. The New Balance Institute for Innovative Leadership in Sport will support students from diverse backgrounds in pursuing sports management careers, enabling them to become positive change-makers in the industry.
The Institute will also facilitate the hiring of new faculty and expand scholarship opportunities to increase annual student enrollment in the sport leadership and administration program, aiming to reach 200-300 students. Moreover, it will focus on research in the sport industry and develop partnerships, expanding funding sources and support within the industry.
Jim Davis, New Balance Chairman, shared the company’s excitement about their extended commitment to UMass Boston through this institute, highlighting New Balance’s dedication to advancing opportunities for transformational leadership, innovation, and diversity in the sports industry. They anticipate the positive impact the institute will have on communities and the creation of future leaders in sports.
As the New Balance Institute for Innovative Leadership in Sport becomes operational and grows,