Jeremy Foley Honored with the 2025 Homer Rice Award for Exemplary Leadership in College Athletics

In a ceremony that celebrated decades of unparalleled leadership, commitment, and innovation, Jeremy Foley, former University of Florida Athletic Director, was named the recipient of the 2025 Homer Rice Award. This prestigious honor recognizes Foley’s outstanding contributions to college athletics, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential and visionary leaders in the history of collegiate sports.

The Homer Rice Award, named after the legendary college athletics administrator and former athletic director at Georgia Tech, celebrates exemplary leadership that positively impacts student-athletes, athletic programs, and the broader collegiate sports community. Foley’s selection as the 2025 honoree reflects his remarkable career, marked by transformative initiatives, championship successes, and an unwavering dedication to the values of integrity, education, and excellence.

Jeremy Foley’s tenure as Athletic Director at the University of Florida spanned over two decades, from 1992 to 2016, a period in which he elevated the Gators to national prominence across multiple sports. Foley’s visionary leadership was instrumental in building championship-caliber programs and enhancing the university’s athletic infrastructure.

Under Foley’s stewardship, Florida secured numerous national championships in football, basketball, softball, and other sports, while also fostering an environment that prioritized academic success and student-athlete well-being.

Foley’s approach combined fiscal responsibility with strategic investments in facilities and coaching talent, transforming Florida into one of the premier athletic programs in the country.

The Homer Rice Award celebrates leaders who exemplify outstanding dedication, innovation, and ethical stewardship in college athletics. Named after Homer Rice, a pioneering athletic director renowned for his holistic approach to athlete development and program management, the award is reserved for individuals who have profoundly shaped the landscape of collegiate sports.

In honoring Foley, the award committee highlighted his:

• Commitment to student-athlete development both on and off the field.
• Ability to build championship programs through strategic hiring and resource management.
• Leadership in facility upgrades and modernization.
• Advocacy for academic achievement and compliance.
• Dedication to fostering a culture of integrity and excellence.

The award was presented at the 2025 NACDA (National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics) Convention, where college athletics leaders from across the nation gathered to celebrate the most impactful figures in the industry.

During the ceremony, Foley was lauded by peers, former coaches, players, and university officials. The event featured heartfelt speeches that underscored Foley’s impact not only on the University of Florida but on college athletics as a whole.

University of Florida President Ben Sasse remarked:

“Jeremy Foley’s leadership transformed Florida Athletics into a national powerhouse while always putting student-athletes first. His legacy is one of integrity, vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence.”

Jeremy Foley’s leadership style was defined by a balanced approach that prioritized competitive success alongside academic and personal development for student-athletes.

Some of the hallmarks of his tenure include:

• Championship Success: Florida won multiple NCAA national championships during Foley’s tenure, including football titles in 1996, 2006, and 2008, men’s basketball in 2006 and 2007, and softball in 2014.
• Facility Expansion: Foley oversaw significant upgrades, including the construction of the Stephen C. O’Connell Center and enhancements to the football stadium, training facilities, and practice complexes.
• Academic Excellence: He championed programs that improved graduation rates and academic support for athletes.
• Financial Stewardship: Foley was known for prudent budgeting and increasing donor engagement, ensuring the athletic department’s financial health.
• Diversity and Inclusion: He fostered a culture that embraced diversity and provided opportunities for all student-athletes.

Jeremy Foley’s influence extends beyond the trophies and facilities. His commitment to ethical leadership has served as a model for athletic directors nationwide.

Foley’s focus on building strong relationships with coaches, staff, athletes, and university administrators created a collaborative environment that enabled sustained success.

His ability to navigate the evolving landscape of college athletics—amidst changes in NCAA regulations, media rights, and athlete welfare—highlighted his adaptability and foresight.

• Coach Urban Meyer (Former Florida Football Head Coach):

“Jeremy was the rock behind Florida’s success. His support, vision, and leadership created the conditions for us to win championships and develop great young men.”

• Alumni and Former Players:

“Jeremy Foley’s impact goes far beyond wins. He cared about us as people and set the standard for what it means to be a Gator.”

• Fellow Athletic Directors:

“Jeremy exemplifies the qualities this award celebrates—integrity, vision, and a genuine commitment to student-athlete development.”

Foley’s career spanned a dynamic period in college sports, with challenges ranging from NCAA compliance to the increasing commercialization of athletics. His ability to innovate while maintaining core values set him apart.

He championed early adoption of sports medicine advancements, mental health resources, and compliance education, positioning Florida as a leader in athlete care.

Foley also anticipated shifts in recruiting and media, negotiating television contracts that enhanced Florida’s visibility and financial stability.

Jeremy Foley’s leadership has had ripple effects throughout the collegiate sports landscape. His model of blending competitive excellence with student-athlete welfare is increasingly regarded as the gold standard.

As the industry grapples with issues like athlete compensation, mental health, and academic integrity, Foley’s example offers a roadmap grounded in principled leadership.

The Homer Rice Award serves not only to honor Foley but to highlight the qualities necessary for future leaders to sustain and grow college athletics responsibly.

Though retired from administrative duties, Jeremy Foley remains an active voice in athletics. He frequently speaks at conferences, mentors emerging athletic directors, and advocates for policies that enhance college sports.

His receipt of the Homer Rice Award in 2025 renews attention on his career and reaffirms his role as a guiding figure in collegiate athletics leadership.

Jeremy Foley’s recognition with the 2025 Homer Rice Award is a fitting tribute to a career defined by vision, integrity, and transformative leadership. His impact on the University of Florida and college athletics at large is profound and enduring.

As the sport continues to evolve, Foley’s example serves as an inspiration — reminding us that true leadership in athletics is about fostering excellence on the field while nurturing character, education, and community.

The award cements Jeremy Foley’s place among the great architects of college sports and celebrates a legacy that will inspire generations of Gators and athletics leaders to come.