Storrs, CT – The National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) has named UConn Director of Athletics David Benedict as a recipient of the Athletic Director of the Year (ADOY) award.
NACDA announced 28 winners across seven divisions on Monday, March 17.
Benedict, now in his ninth season at UConn, will be honored at the 60th Annual NACDA & Affiliates Convention in Orlando, Fla., on June 10.
The award recognizes athletic directors for their leadership and contributions to student-athletes, campuses, and communities.
Under Benedict’s tenure, UConn athletics have flourished. The Huskies have won four national championships, 21 conference regular-season titles, and 35 conference tournament championships.
The 2023-24 season featured a back-to-back national title for the men’s basketball team and 11 conference championships across multiple sports.
His impact extends beyond competition. In 2020, he led UConn’s return to the BIG EAST while keeping the football team as an FBS independent. That move, along with the hiring of head coach Jim Mora, resulted in two bowl appearances in three years. He also hired men’s basketball coach Dan Hurley in 2018, a decision that has produced two national titles.
Benedict has overseen over $250 million in facility improvements, including new venues for baseball, softball, volleyball, and ice hockey.
In 2025, construction will begin on a $90 million student-athlete performance and academic support facility, along with $110 million in renovations to Gampel Pavilion.
Academically, UConn athletes have set records. In 2023-24, the department achieved a 92% graduation success rate, with 76% of athletes earning a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Financially, Benedict has driven self-generated revenue increases, with a $7.6 million rise in FY24 and a 43.5% jump from FY22. UConn athletics contributed $242.7 million to Connecticut’s economy last year.
The ADOY program, now in its 27th year, has recognized 605 athletic directors. NACDA, celebrating its 60th anniversary, represents over 24,000 college athletics administrators.
