< Previous18 UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH ATHLETICS COVER STORY ighly accomplished and nationally respected college athletics administrator Allen Greene has been appointed director of athletics at the University of Pittsburgh , Chancellor Joan Gabel announced on Oct. 18. Greene began his role at Pitt on Nov. 1, dividing his time between Pittsburgh and Knoxville to fullfill any outstanding responsibilites at the University of Tennessee. “Pitt Athletics is the front porch of the University of Pittsburgh, serving as a crucial access point for so many across our campus, our region, our nation and the world,” said Chancellor Joan Gabel. “In Allen Greene, we have a proven national leader who exemplifies the Pitt way, and who has all of the experience and intangibles to elevate our athletics program in competition and in the classroom. In my conversations with Allen and with many others who know him well, it is clear that he will lead us successfully into the new world of intercollegiate athletics.” “Chancellor Gabel and the advisory committee deserve great credit for identifying and appointing such an experienced and visionary leader like Allen Greene for our athletics department,” said Board of Trustees Chairperson John Verbanac. “I am tremendously grateful and honored to receive the opportunity from Chancellor Gabel to join the University of Pittsburgh, an institution and athletic tradition I’ve long admired,” said Greene. “It was apparent from my very first conversation with Chancellor Gabel that Pitt has the highest Chancellor Joan Gabel (left) introduces Allen Greene as Pitt’s director of athletics at an Oct. 23, 2024, press conference.H2P MAGAZINE FALL 2024 19 of aspirations in every endeavor it undertakes. That’s tremendously energizing to me and a challenge I fully embrace. I am inspired by the storied history of Pitt Athletics and am fully dedicated to helping our Panthers reach even greater heights in the future. I am looking forward to meeting and working on behalf of Pitt’s student- athletes, coaches, staff and campus leaders. The Greene family is incredibly thankful and excited to proudly wear Pitt’s blue and gold.” “On behalf of Pitt Athletics, I would like to welcome Allen Greene and his family to the University of Pittsburgh,” said Jeff Capel, head coach of Pitt men’s basketball, who served on the advisory committee. “I also want to thank and congratulate Chancellor Gabel on an excellent search process. Allen brings to Pitt an outstanding reputation as an innovative leader who is personally invested in the student-athletes and staff under his watch. His impressive administrative experience will be a tremendous asset not only for our athletics department but also the entire University. We greatly look forward to his arrival on campus.” Greene has been a lead figure in the management of name, image and likeness (NIL) programs at three separate Southeastern Conference (SEC) institutions, including most recently at the University of Tennessee, where he has served as senior deputy athletics director since December 2023. He has played an integral role in the athletics department’s over 30% increase in annual revenue. Prior to his tenure with the Volunteers, he served a year at the University of Mississippi as senior deputy athletics director for external relations and business development. From 2018 and 2022, Greene served as director of athletics at Auburn University, where his record of success included eight SEC championships and 47 programs achieving Top 25 finishes in national rankings. In 2021-22 alone, six Auburn athletic programs finished in the nation’s Top 10.During his tenure, the Auburn men’s basketball team earned the first No. 1 national ranking in program history and advanced to its first Final Four; the baseball team returned to the College World Series for the first time in 22 years; the equestrian team won two national championships; and student- athlete grade-point averages rose to a combined 3.25. Auburn Athletics also welcomed its four largest individual donations ever, and the Woltosz Football Performance Center—a $92 million football facility that stands as the largest athletics project in Auburn history—was constructed. Prior to Auburn, Greene served the University at Buffalo as director of athletics from 2015 to 2018. His tenure was distinguished by historic success athletically and academically. In the competitive arena, four Buffalo teams advanced to their respective NCAA championships in a two-year span. The men’s and women’s basketball teams both won Mid-American Conference (MAC) championships in 2016—the first time that dual feat was achieved in the MAC since 2002—and earned automatic NCAA Tournament berths. The 2017-18 men’s basketball team went 27-9 and won its first-ever NCAA Tournament game by upsetting Pac-12 champion Arizona, 89-68. Under Greene’s watch, Buffalo student- athletes earned grade-point averages of 3.0 or better for 11 consecutive semesters, with the football team earning its highest team GPA in program history. Greene was instrumental in significantly enhancing donor and corporate support for Buffalo Athletics. He also negotiated the department’s first multimedia rights agreement. Greene was a three-year starter for the Irish baseball team at the University of Notre Dame, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in finance in 2000. He was a ninth-round selection in the 1998 Major League Baseball draft by the New York Yankees and played three years in the organization’s minor league system. He later earned a Master of Business Administration at Indiana University’s South Bend campus. He is highly regarded by his peers, having served on the executive committee of the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and LEAD 1 as 1st vice-chair. He and his wife, Christy, have three children: daughters Rian and Seneca and son Samuel.20 UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH ATHLETICS “ NATIONAL PRAISE FOR ALLEN GREENE “ Congratulations to the University of Pittsburgh and Chancellor Gabel on a home run hire! Allen is one of the most innovative, genuine and competitive leaders we have in college athletics. We are sad to lose Allen and his family on Rocky Top, but look forward to seeing their transformative impact at Pitt!” - Danny White, Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics, University of Tennessee, Knoxville Allen has added so much to our campus while in his leadership role in our Athletics Department, and I look forward to seeing the exceptional leadership he will provide the University of Pittsburgh. We are all aware of the uncertain state of college athletics right now, and I know Allen will also be a leader in that national conversation.” - Donde Plowman, Chancellor, University of Tennessee, Knoxville Allen Greene is an outstanding leader; man of great character; and one of the most caring, genuine people that I’ve worked with in college athletics. He is an excellent listener and will create alignment with coaches, staff, alumni and donors on the direction of the athletics department. Allen is an outstanding hire and will prove to be a great leader for the University of Pittsburgh .” - Lance Leipold, Head Football Coach, University of Kansas We look forward to welcoming Allen Greene to the ACC and having him join our outstanding group of athletic directors. As a former student-athlete at one of our league institutions, Allen will be a tremendous advocate for Pitt and the ACC. To be certain, I applaud Chancellor Joan Gabel’s leadership, and Allen’s experience and skill set will be a tremendous addition to our conference. Collectively, they will continue the strong momentum surrounding the University of Pittsburgh.” - Jim Phillips, Atlantic Coast Conference Commissioner Congrats to my friend Allen on this next chapter of what has already been a successful career. I went to work every day at Auburn trying to reward my boss, Allen, for the confidence he showed and the support he provided. He’s a loyal and engaged leader with an unwavering commitment to excellence. I couldn’t be happier for the Pitt community because they landed a five-star human being!” - Bruce Pearl, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Auburn University Hail to Pitt—Allen Greene is a fantastic hire for the University of Pittsburgh. He is a leader with the utmost integrity. He is a champion for student-athletes. He is a role model to many, and he has a wealth of experience in intercollegiate athletics that will benefit the entire Pitt community. H2P.” - Bubba Cunningham, Director of Athletics, University of North Carolina “ “ “ “H2P MAGAZINE FALL 2024 21 Allen Greene addresses the audience at the press conference announcing his appointment as director of athletics. (left to right) Allen Greene, Chancellor Joan Gabel and Pitt Board of Trustees Chairperson John Verbanac The Greene family Legendary Pitt wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (center) was recognized during Larry Fitzgerald Night at the Oct. 24 football game for his election to the College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024. Pitt’s Senior Associate Athletic Director for Major Gifts Pat Bostick (left), Allen Greene (center) and 93.7 The Fan and Pitt Radio Network Reporter Larry Richert.22 UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH ATHLETICS FEATURE EMBRACE THE LEGACY: Pitt Athletics’ Timeless Traditions raditions at the University of Pittsburgh are a vibrant tapestry, woven with threads of history, pride and community and continually expanding through the generations. It all begins with our school colors, royal blue and gold, and our alma mater, setting the stage for a journey steeped in tradition . ROC THE PANTHER No Pitt experience is complete without encountering our beloved mascot, Roc. His infectious spirit and joy bring the campus to life, rallying students and alumni alike. Derived from the University’s fight song, this catchphrase has evolved into a universal greeting and a rallying cry, uniting the Pitt community in celebration and solidarity. HAIL TO PITTH2P MAGAZINE FALL 2024 23 VICTORY LIGHTS Perhaps the most iconic of all Pitt traditions are the Victory Lights atop the Cathedral of Learning. Initially, these golden lights celebrated Pitt football victories. Over time, they’ve come to honor all athletic achievements as well as major University successes, illuminating the night sky with a beacon of Panther pride. Need a little luck for your exams? Pitt students know just where to go. The original home plate from Forbes Field, now located in Wesley W. Posvar Hall, is a cherished spot for a pre-exam jump. And don’t forget to rub the nose of any Panther statue on campus for an extra dose of good fortune! FORBES FIELD HOME PLATE24 UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH ATHLETICS VARSITY WALK Between the Cathedral of Learning and Heinz Memorial Chapel lies Varsity Walk, where the names of outstanding student-athletes are etched in stone. This walk of fame, conceived in 1950, celebrates athletic excellence and is a lasting tribute to those who have made significant contributions to Pitt athletics. THE OAKLAND ZOO Since 2001, the Oakland Zoo has transformed Pitt men’s basketball games into electrifying events. With about 1,500 roaring students typically dressed in gold T-shirts, the Zoo is a force to be reckoned with, making the Petersen Events Center one of the most intimidating arenas in college basketball.H2P MAGAZINE FALL 2024 25 In 2019, a historic tradition was revived: the Pitt Band’s “The Snake, a parade march around campus during homecoming. This spirited procession, once a staple in the 1950s, has reclaimed its place in the Pitt community’s heart and even earned a spot on an ESPN broadcast. THE PITT BAND AND THE SNAKE HOMECOMING Every fall, homecoming brings the Pitt community together, culminating in a home football game. It’s a time of celebration, reconnection and Panther pride, when traditions old and new converge. At Pitt, traditions aren’t just celebrated, they’re lived—passed down from one generation to the next, each adding its own unique chapter to our storied history. Embrace the legacy. Hail to Pitt!26 UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH ATHLETICS FEATURE COACHING AND LEADING Away from the Game Written by Craig Meyer ports can nurture and strengthen certain traits, making what many see as leisurely activities as much of a character-building exercise as a competitive pursuit. Sports necessitate discipline. They teach structure. They require teamwork, even in more individualized competitions. The lessons learned on a field or court or inside a gym or pool can help to prepare someone for challenges and situations they may face in their life or career. It’s something three former University of Pittsburgh female student-athletes know well. After their time at Pitt, these Panthers have gone from being leaders on their teams to leaders in the world of business, where they have used their ingenuity, determination and drive to help build companies from scratch. Once standout players, these individuals are now, in some sense, coaches. But rather than standing on a sideline with a whistle draped around their neck, barking instructions to those under their supervision, they’re breaking new ground, pursuing their passions and forging a future entirely of their own creation. Here are some of their stories. CAROLYNE SAVINI (A&S ’04) A fter graduating from Pitt in 2004 armed with several school swimming records as well as her diploma, Carolyne Savini carried with her a dream: She wanted to be a college athletic director. Shortly after getting to Ohio University, where she earned her master’s in sports administration, her plans changed. Upon meeting a graduate of the program in which she was enrolled who had an executive search firm, Savini went from being someone who would lead a college athletic department to someone potentially tasked with finding that leader. “What I thought might be an 18-36-month job for me turned into a career,” Savini says. Today, 20 years after her Pitt graduation, Savini is now her own boss. In April, she officially launched The Catalyst Executive, an executive coaching and leadership development firm that aims to “reimagine how we develop, promote, and support executive talent as they navigate challenges and opportunities in business and life,” according to its website. The firm offers executive coaching, leadership development, succession planning, onboarding support and assessment and leader development programming, among other services. Put more succinctly, Savini says that The Catalyst Executive’s goal is “bringing more exceptional leadership into the world.” When it comes to leadership, Savini can speak from experience. Following a decorated swimming career at Pitt, in which she set several school records and was an honorable mention All-American, and after earning her master’s degree, Savini embarked on a lengthy and accomplished career in executive H2P MAGAZINE FALL 2024 27 recruiting. She worked for 12 years with TurnkeyZRG, an executive search firm in the sports and entertainment sphere, before moving on to another firm, Nolan Partners, and eventually ending up at Activision Blizzard, an American video game holding company, where she worked in executive practice and talent management for three and a half years. Over that time, she worked with the likes of the NBA, Washington Nationals, Milwaukee Bucks, Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Miami Dolphins, U.S. Tennis Association, National Women’s Soccer League and Super Bowl XLVIII host committee. For all the success she found, she envisioned a different kind of future for herself. Even in her days at Turnkey, she knew that one day she wanted to launch her own business. “I knew from having worked in a small business that I could do this, too,” she says. “It’s not rocket science. I had a desire to be an entrepreneur and have my own business. That was percolating in the back of my mind. Quite frankly, while I kind of assumed that someday I would launch my own executive search firm, it’s in part because it’s what I knew, but not necessarily what I felt like the world needed. Truth be told, my sector of the sports industry doesn’t need another executive recruiting firm. There’s a ton out there now compared to when I first started doing it.” The need for building great leaders rather than finding and recruiting them was made even more urgent for Savini after her time at Activision, which faced a lawsuit for allegedly fostering a culture of sexual harassment near the end of her time there. Though Savini didn’t personally experience any of the misdeeds at the center of the lawsuit, her time at Activision showed her that large companies can have “black holes sucking the life out of what I consider to be great leadership.” “That got me really passionate about, broadly, what makes a great leader and all the things that are wrapped up into it,” she says. Starting a new business can be an onerous endeavor, but it’s one that doesn’t overwhelm Savini. Her swimming career, complete with 5 a.m. alarms for morning practices, taught her the importance of discipline and time management, particularly at Pitt, where she says she felt “like I came alive.” Her time building up The Catalyst Executive has reinforced something else for Savini: When you’re truly passionate about something, even the most rigorous tasks don’t feel like work. “The love for it makes the hard tasks feel different,” she says. “What might seem really challenging or really difficult or the thought of why would anyone want to do this—it brings a whole different experience into it.” ALISA SPECTOR ANGELO (A&S ’87) W hile working toward her MBA at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Alisa Spector Angelo came to a jarring realization. As rigorous as her program was, and as much as she enjoyed certain facets of it, it was focused overwhelmingly on the numbers and data of business rather than the people who work within the system. “Unless you’re going to be in an organization of one, you need people to help you,” she says. “How do you get people aligned, and how do you get people to do the work and execute? There was nothing on communications. How do you message? How do you persuade? How do you get people excited? All those things, whether you’re talking internally or to investors or whoever, were completely lacking from the curriculum. There was such a missing space.” Even if she didn’t necessarily know it in the moment, that revelation would come to define her professional life. Spector Angelo is the founder and president of Compass Business Solutions, Inc., a consulting firm that specializes in driving “organizational performance through proven business and people strategies.” “Each one of us at Compass, gets up every morning and is energized by helping clients create workplaces where their people can thrive,” Spector Angelo says. “That involves a lot of different things. That includes having the right leadership tools to be strong leaders. That requires the right policies, the right procedures, helping our teams to perform at their best in training and development. There are all different pieces to that employee experience, and that’s what my company does. How do we create these environments that people can perform their best in?” Years before Compass was born, Spector Angelo grew to understand how genuine, sometimes overlooked, relationships between humans can elevate performance.Next >