Wisconsin Athletics has hired Jenn Hunter as its new director of Diversity and Inclusion, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Student Services Doug Tiedt announced today. Hunter had spent the last two years as an academic specialist/academic coordinator at the University of California-Berkeley, overseeing the academic support program for the Cal men’s and women’s basketball programs.
“We are thrilled to have someone with Jennifer’s expertise and passion joining our program,” Tiedt said. “Her perspective and experience will enhance the diversity and inclusion efforts of the athletic department, campus and community.”
“I am thankful and excited to become a part of the Badger family and am truly looking forward to the opportunity to contribute not only to the diversity and inclusion initiatives of the department, but also to ensure athletics is represented and aligned with campus’ visions and goals as well,” Hunter said.
In her new role, Hunter will work with a wide variety of constituents within the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics and on campus to align programmatic needs that support diversity initiatives. She will serve as a primary liaison to campus groups and committees that oversee inclusion and diversity initiatives. Hunter, who started her new position on Aug. 15, will collaborate with Division of Intercollegiate Athletic and University of Wisconsin-Madison staff members, specifically student-athlete development staff, on issues of relevance related to inclusion and diversity initiatives with a focus on student-athletes. She will serve on both campus and departmental committees that deal with diversity matters and will serve as the chair of the Diversity and Inclusion group, while participating in student-athlete development program planning.
During her time at Cal, Hunter spearheaded the revitalization of the men’s basketball academic and student development program, which previously was the lowest in the Pac-12. Hunter helped the team earn Cal’s Most Improved Team GPA award and perfect APR scores in the last two years. In her role, she devised individualized learning plans and strategies to assist the student-athletes during their matriculation. She was also responsible for the faculty engagement and outreach program between athletics and campus.
Prior to her time Cal, Hunter spent two years working in public schools in New Orleans as an English instructor and advisor. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in public relations and sports administration from Howard University in 2007, and then went on to attain her Juris Doctor from Thurgood Marshall School of Law.
