On September 24th, the University of Akron President, Robert (R.J.) Nemer, delivered a talk at the Club that highlighted his impressive background. A native of Akron, Nemer earned both a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (1990) and a law degree (1995) from UA. After working as an attorney, he founded a professional golf agency in 1998, which he grew into the world’s largest independently held sports agency. In 2015, Nemer sold the agency to William Morris Endeavor/IMG and took on the role of global leader for IMG Golf. His unique blend of private sector success and academic experience positions him to lead the university effectively.
"I can't think of a better place to live, raise a family and prosper than Akron, Ohio," he remarked. When asked, "What can the community do to help the University?" We all need to be ambassadors for the University, positive energy begets positive energy. Positivity is definitely something Rotarians can get behind.
Since being appointed dean of the College of Business in January 2022, President Nemer has increased enrollment in the face of declines in higher education nationally. Additionally, he has expanded relationships with regional and national employers by branding the College of Business as a place where students “experience business,” building on its strength in experiential learning.
The Board has tasked President Nemer with leading the University in its next steps toward a more sustainable future, focusing on a return to solid financial footing. The Board believes the University can establish a stronger brand, focusing on academic areas that are in demand in the market to increase enrollment.
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