Jeremy Foley Honored with the 2025 Homer Rice Award for Exemplary Leadership in College Athletics
In a significant recognition of his enduring impact on collegiate sports, Jeremy Foley has been named the recipient of the 2025 Homer Rice Award. This prestigious honor, presented annually by the Lead1 Association, acknowledges the exceptional contributions of former Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) athletic directors who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and service to intercollegiate athletics. Foley’s selection underscores his transformative influence on the University of Florida’s athletic programs and his lasting legacy in the realm of college sports administration.
Jeremy Foley served as the Director of Athletics at the University of Florida from 1992 until his retirement in 2016. During his tenure, he was instrumental in elevating Florida’s athletic programs to national prominence. Under his leadership, the Gators secured multiple national championships across various sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. Foley’s strategic vision and commitment to excellence fostered a culture of success that permeated throughout the university’s athletic department.
One of Foley’s most notable achievements was his role in the construction of the Ben Hill Griffin Stadium’s west stands, a project that significantly enhanced the fan experience and bolstered the Gators’ home-field advantage. Additionally, he oversaw the development of the Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center, providing state-of-the-art facilities for the university’s basketball and volleyball teams. These infrastructure improvements not only elevated the athletic programs but also contributed to the university’s broader mission of fostering student engagement and community involvement.
Beyond his contributions to facilities, Foley was a staunch advocate for the holistic development of student-athletes. He emphasized the importance of academic achievement, personal growth, and community service, aligning with the core values of the NCAA’s Life Skills program. His leadership extended to national platforms, where he served on various NCAA committees, influencing policies that shaped the landscape of college athletics.
The Homer Rice Award, named in honor of the late Homer Rice—a legendary figure in college athletics known for his innovative leadership and commitment to student-athlete development—recognizes individuals who have exemplified similar qualities. Rice’s legacy includes the establishment of the Total Person Program at Georgia Tech, which became a model for NCAA Life Skills initiatives. Foley’s selection for this award reflects his alignment with Rice’s vision and his enduring impact on the collegiate athletic community.
In receiving the 2025 Homer Rice Award, Jeremy Foley joins an esteemed group of past recipients who have made indelible marks on college athletics. This recognition not only honors his past achievements but also serves as a testament to the enduring influence of his leadership in shaping the future of collegiate sports.
As the collegiate athletic landscape continues to evolve, the contributions of leaders like Jeremy Foley remain pivotal in ensuring that the values of integrity, excellence, and student-athlete welfare remain at the forefront of intercollegiate athletics. The 2025 Homer Rice Award stands as a fitting tribute to Foley’s legacy and a reminder of the profound impact that dedicated leadership can have on the world of college sports.
