Gloria Nevarez, the Mountain West Conference commissioner, has had a remarkable journey in the world of college athletics. Starting as a compliance director at San Jose State University, she took a significant pay cut to pursue her passion for sports. With a background in law, Nevarez quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a trailblazer in an industry predominantly led by men.
Having excelled in multiple sports during her youth, Nevarez's athletic background and competitive spirit have been key to her success. She graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a degree in sport management, which laid the foundation for her future endeavors in the sports industry.
Throughout her career, Nevarez has held various roles in compliance and administration at institutions like UC Berkeley, West Coast Conference, and Pac-10 Conference. Her leadership qualities and boundless enthusiasm earned her the nickname 'G-Force' at the University of Oklahoma, where she made a significant impact during her tenure.
In 2018, Nevarez made history by becoming the first person of Latin American descent to serve as an NCAA Division 1 commissioner when she took on the role at the West Coast Conference. She implemented initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion, such as the Bill Russell Rule, which aimed to increase representation from underrepresented communities in senior administrative and coaching positions.
Recently, in January 2023, Nevarez assumed the position of commissioner of the Mountain West Conference, further solidifying her status as a prominent figure in college athletics. Her hands-on approach and ability to understand the industry from a student-athlete's perspective have garnered praise from colleagues and industry experts alike.
Under Nevarez's leadership, the Mountain West Conference aims to navigate the challenges of college athletics, ensuring stability and growth for member institutions. With her track record of success and dedication to promoting inclusivity, Gloria Nevarez continues to make a lasting impact on the world of sports administration.
