The RQ Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing resources and opportunities for sports officials, has announced the appointment of its inaugural Board of Directors. Comprising esteemed leaders from various collegiate athletic conferences, this board will focus on evaluating effectiveness, reviewing annual plans and budgets, providing strategic vision, ensuring mission achievement, and contributing strategically to the organization's goals.

Key priorities include addressing challenges in officiating recruitment and retention while promoting excellence within the profession. The board members bring extensive experience in college athletics administration, officiating services, and leadership roles that align with the foundation’s mission to elevate officiating standards across all divisions.

Pioneering Leadership: A Team Dedicated to Advancing Officiating Standards

This newly formed board consists of individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving officiating at the collegiate level. Each member brings unique expertise derived from their respective fields, ensuring comprehensive guidance for the RQ Foundation's initiatives. Their collective efforts aim to strengthen the overall effectiveness of officiating programs through innovative strategies and long-term planning.

Reid Amos, commissioner of the Mountain East Conference, exemplifies dedication by expanding conference sports offerings and leading digital network developments. Bo Boroski, founder and CEO of RQ+, leverages over two decades of experience as an NCAA Division I basketball official to revolutionize officiating services. Dan Butterly, commissioner of The Big West Conference, contributes his insights from serving multiple national committees focused on competition policy and student-athlete welfare. Together, these leaders ensure robust oversight and direction for the foundation.

Strategic Initiatives: Fostering Growth and Excellence in Officiating

The RQ Foundation's initiatives are centered around fostering growth and maintaining high standards in officiating. By concentrating on recruitment, retention, and professional development, the foundation aims to address contemporary challenges facing the officiating community. This involves implementing effective strategies tailored to meet specific needs within different divisions.

Danielle Harris, commissioner of the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, highlights achievements such as introducing new championship sports and rebranding efforts under her tenure. Sandy Hatfield Clubb, president of The PICTOR Group and managing director for strategic initiatives for the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics, provides invaluable perspective shaped by extensive involvement in intercollegiate athletics governance. Patrick B. Summers, executive director of the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference, showcases success in expanding memberships, negotiating media agreements, and focusing on officiating recruitment and retention. Collectively, these contributions drive meaningful progress towards achieving the RQ Foundation's overarching objectives.