Bernard Hill, Ph.D.
Director, Corporate & Community Partnerships
- (334) 707-7472
- hillleb@auburn.edu
- 206 O.D. Smith Hall
Short Bio
Dr. Hill is a dedicated professional with a rich history of contributions to higher education and athletics. His career spans over two decades, marked by significant achievements in community outreach, student development, and athletic administration.
Education and Research: Hill holds a Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Promotion, a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration, and a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration, all from Auburn University. He is a member of several academic honor societies and has co-authored research on cost control in intercollegiate athletics titled “Cost Control: The Challenge for Intercollegiate Athletics.” Hill also served as an adjunct professor teaching a graduate level sports marketing course at Auburn University.
Personal Life: Hill was a member of the Auburn University football team in the early 90s and later served as a high school football coach, helping several players secure scholarships to institutions within the Southeastern Conference. He is married to Sherina Hill from Bremen, Georgia, and they reside in Auburn with their two children, Kylie and Christian.
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Promotion Auburn University 1997
- Master of Education in Higher Education Administration Auburn University 2000
- Ph. D. in Higher Education Administration Auburn University 2015
Professional Experience
Auburn University Outreach: Hill began his work within Auburn University Outreach in September 2021. As the Coordinator of Community and Corporate Relations, he organized the inaugural “Auburn Across Alabama” experience, fostering partnerships through immersive community engagements. Hill led fundraising efforts during Tiger Giving Day supported key Outreach initiatives, heightening awareness of the Outreach mission both on and off-campus. Currently, Hill serves as the Director of Corporate and Community Partnerships, overseeing fundraising efforts to support programs that fulfill the institution's land grant mission. He actively engages with key constituent groups to promote Outreach programming and projects.
Point University: At Point University, Hill served as the Chief Student Development and Retention Officer. He was the direct report for the Dean of Students and the Director of Athletics, overseeing orientation, retention, Title IX, student success, and all student-related functions. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, Hill also taught Effective Thinking and Sports Law, preparing students for their academic journey and providing insights into sports legislation. A former student shared, "Dr. Hill's Effective Thinking class was a game-changer for me. His guidance helped me navigate my first year with confidence."
Auburn University Athletics: Hill's tenure at Auburn University spanned 12 years as a Senior Associate Athletics Director. He managed the Auburn Football Letterman Club, the A Club, and AUBURNYOU, promoting student-athlete experience initiatives and maintaining connections with former student-athletes. Hill served as the sport administrator for 10 of Auburn's 21 sports, overseeing strength and conditioning, student-athlete support services and compliance related activities. His involvement extended to major facility enhancements and various NCAA and institutional committees. "Hill's leadership in athletics has been instrumental in our success," said a colleague.
Compliance and Investigations: Hill also served as a Senior Associate AD for Compliance at Auburn, handling investigations and representing the university at the Alabama Agent Commission meeting. He graduated from the NCAA Pathway Program and conducted extensive rules education sessions, managing compliance-related issues across campus.
Stetson University: Before returning to Auburn, Hill worked at Stetson University as the Associate Athletic Director for Compliance. He navigated the institution through NCAA major infractions cases, emphasizing the importance of self-reporting violations to mitigate penalties. Hill's efforts in educational sessions, compliance management and donor engagement were pivotal during his tenure.
