Arizona State Announces Graham Rossini as its Next Athletic Director
Just over six months after former athletic director Ray Anderson resigned from his post with the Sun Devils, the university announced its decision to keep the hire in-house by elevating chief business officer Graham Rossini to serve as the new AD.
The announcement became official on Thursday, as the university noted that Rossini is a veteran of more than 20 years in sports business, with experience at the MLB and Power 5 levels.
“The ability to lead the athletics department at my alma mater is a responsibility that I am enormously proud to take on,” said Rossini. “I am so thankful for the many opportunities in my life that were created through ASU, and I have much to repay as a result.
“Our entire athletics department will work relentlessly to support our student-athletes and coaches as we compete at the highest level. We will build and maintain strong relationships with the entire ASU community, including our fans, letter winners, alumni, partners, and donors while celebrating the spirit, pride, and tradition that is unique to ASU.”
According to an ASU release, Rossini spent 13 years with the Arizona Diamondbacks as vice president of special projects and fan experience.
“He was responsible for several departments and revenue generated from ticketing, corporate partnerships, special events, food and beverage, and merchandise,” the release reads. “Rossini led over $300 million in capital projects during his time in MLB, and he oversaw the design, construction, ticket sales and marketing of Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, the team’s award-winning spring training complex that has earned more than 40 “best of” awards since opening in 2011.”
“This is an exciting time for Graham and his family, as well as our entire Sun Devil family,” said Arizona Diamondbacks President and CEO Derrick Hall, who graduated from ASU in 1991.
“Graham was a talented and valued member of our leadership team before returning home to ASU. I entrusted him with critical and transformational projects and programs throughout his tenure in all areas of our business. His competence, experience, contacts, creativity and vision always brought success to each of these assignments. I look forward to him taking athletics to new heights. He will have tremendous support through his countless relationships in the business community and his deep roots here.”
