Rutgers University has launched an investigation into former athletic director Pat Hobbs for a possible “inappropriate and consensual relationship,” according to a report by New Jersey Advance Media.
Hobbs resigned on August 16, citing health problems, after serving in the position for nine years.
NJ Advance reported that “the investigation is believed to have prompted his abrupt resignation.” The school has not yet addressed the allegation.
Earlier this week, NJ Advance Media also reported that Rutgers’ gymnastics program was in disarray prior to Hobbs’ departure, with head coach Umme Salim-Beasley at the center of complaints from athletes.
Several gymnasts alleged that Salim-Beasley fostered a “toxic” environment, among many other complaints. When they turned to Hobbs for help, the athletic director allegedly ignored them.
Rutgers is investigating former athletic director Pat Hobbs after his abrupt resignation
Hobbs is reportedly in an “inappropriate and consensual” relationship
The outlet reported that New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy spoke publicly about the “internal investigation” on Friday.
“I know there’s an investigation going on, so I don’t want to get ahead of myself,” Murphy said. “I have no information on it, but it was really ugly and very disturbing. I’ve been in touch with Rutgers at the highest levels.
“I know they are conducting an internal investigation, but what was published in the newspaper was a series of rather disgusting facts. We will see.”
The University praised Hobbs after he left office.
“I want to thank Pat for his remarkable nine-year tenure at Rutgers, during which we have seen our men’s and women’s teams become leaders and compete successfully in the Big Ten, both on and off the field,” school President Jonathan Holloway said in an email to university leaders.
Hobbs was credited with “enhancing the student-athlete experience” and emphasizing “elevated communication, better resource allocation and enriched customer service” during his tenure.
Under his contract, Hobbs would be entitled to earn at least $635,000 in base salary this school year with his salary adjusted to the median of other Big Ten athletic directors.
His biggest move in charge of the Scarlet Knights was bringing back Greg Schiano as head football coach in 2019.
Following Hobbs’ sudden departure, Ryan Pisarri has replaced him on an interim basis. According to the Rutgers Athletics website, Pisarri was the assistant athletic director for competitive excellence and chief of staff and has been with the program for 14 years.
Hobbs is married and has three children with his wife Patrice. He served as dean of Seaton Hall from 1999 to 2015 before moving to Rutgers.
