Saint Joseph’s University Names Ashwin Puri as New Vice President and Director of Athletics

PHILADELPHIA, MAY 4, 2026 — Saint Joseph’s University President Cheryl A. McConnell, PhD, announced today that Ashwin “Ash” Puri has been named the University’s new vice president and director of athletics, effective Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Puri joins Saint Joseph’s from La Salle University and brings with him more than two decades of experience as a leader in collegiate and professional sports, including senior roles at Villanova University, the University of California Berkeley, the Oakland Athletics, the NBA and the NFL. 

“After an extensive national search and deliberation over a robust and talented applicant pool, I am pleased to share that Ash Puri has been named Saint Joseph’s new vice president and director of athletics. Ash brings more than two decades of experience building championship programs, elevating the student-athlete experience, driving revenue growth and stewarding academic excellence, all while fostering a culture of belonging,” McConnell said in an announcement on Monday.

In Puri’s new role, he will lead a division comprising approximately 500 student-athletes across 21 NCAA Division I men’s and women’s varsity programs competing in the Atlantic 10 Conference, as well as robust club sports and campus recreation programs. Puri steps into an athletics program that has built real momentum across its teams, competed on the national stage, brought home conference titles, and established a culture of excellence both on the field and in the classroom.

“I have long admired Saint Joseph’s – its mission, its values, the way it develops student-athletes both in competition and in life. So, when this opportunity arose, it felt like a natural fit,” Puri says. “I’m excited to bring energy, passion and a deep commitment to this role. There is a strong foundation here, and I look forward to building on it alongside St. Joe’s student-athletes and staff.”
 

He continues, “Dr. Cheryl McConnell, the search committee, and the team at Collegiate Sports Associates took the time to understand me beyond my resume, and I’m truly grateful for that trust. It’s an honor to lead this program and to join the Saint Joseph’s community. Nikole, Xavier, and I are thrilled to be a part of Hawk Hill. The Hawk Will Never Die.”

Puri has been a leader in collegiate and professional sports for more than 20 years. Most recently, he served as vice president for athletics and recreation, and director of athletics, at La Salle University, where he oversaw a comprehensive program rooted in academic excellence and holistic student development. He has also held senior leadership roles with Villanova, the NBA and Oakland Athletics, where he spearheaded a program that introduced recent college graduates to the sports industry, developed a new membership access program and managed $60 million annually.

Throughout his career, Puri has established himself as one of the most versatile and dynamic athletic administrators in the country. He has led programs through transformative growth — building revenue streams, modernizing facilities, elevating academic cultures and positioning institutions for long-term success.

His experience spans the full breadth of sports, from Division I athletics to the MLB, NBA and NFL, giving him a unique perspective on what it takes to build and sustain a winning organization. Whether negotiating landmark partnerships, leading high-profile coaching searches or championing student-athlete development, Puri has consistently demonstrated the vision, culture and drive that define great athletics leadership.

Puri is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Management.

He will be introduced at a press conference on May 18 in Hagan Arena at Saint Joseph’s Hawk Hill campus. Additional details, including time and livestream information, will be shared at SJUHawks.com in the coming days.

What They’re Saying
 

• “At a time when innovative revenue generation is paramount in college athletics, St. Joe’s will be incredibly well-positioned under Ash’s leadership. Beyond a brilliant business mind, they will be guided by a leadership philosophy that centers on family, community and the comprehensive development of student-athletes. I couldn’t be happier for him,” says Mark Jackson, Combe Family Vice President for Athletics and Recreation, Northwestern University.
   
• “The Hawks have made the perfect hire to lead an athletic department in today's turbulent yet exciting environment. Ash Puri is an exceptional blend of highly skilled and experienced business acumen and a passionate and committed educator who truly believes in the transformative power of college athletics to change lives and communities for the good. I can't wait to see the great things that Ash and St. Joe's will do together,” says Sandy Barbour, former athletic director, University of California and Penn State University.
   
• “I enjoyed working with Ash as the head coach at La Salle and in my role as Special Assistant to the President. Ash is a great partner, leader and friend. I am happy for him and his family as he continues his journey in Philadelphia at St. Joe’s,” says Fran Dunphy, former men’s basketball head coach, La Salle University, Temple University and University of Pennsylvania.