Reds Beat: Reds and Xavier Become Official 10-Year Partners, What Does That Mean For Both?

CINCINNATI — Xavier University and the Cincinnati Reds are teaming up with a new 10-year commitment naming Xavier as the Official University of the Reds.

As the Reds said in their joint statement with the Xavier on Monday, “this long-term partnership brings together two of Cincinnati’s most storied and influential institutions, building on their shared strengths and deep roots in the region. Together, Xavier and the Reds will enhance academic opportunities for students and create new pathways for hands-on learning connected to one of Major League Baseball’s most historic franchises.”

So what does all of that mean?

This partnership includes:

New internship opportunities for Xavier students

Expanded curriculum development within Sports Management and related academic programs

Increased collaboration on experiential learning projects and student-focused initiatives

Co-branding presence at both Great American Ball Park and the Xavier campus

Unique mentorship opportunities and a “Speaker Series” with Reds professionals sharing career insights with students

Reds participation in Xavier classes as research partners, giving students real-time industry challenges to analyze and solve

Continuing-education benefits for Reds staff, supporting their professional growth through Xavier’s academic programs

As the Official University of the Reds, Xavier students will gain access to real-world learning experiences, from exclusive internships and job-shadowing opportunities to on-campus engagement with Reds professionals. Each year, a significant number of students will be selected for immersive internships within the Reds organization, working alongside front-office leaders in communications and marketing, promotional events and operations, business analytics, fan engagement, and sales. This partnership reflects a shared belief that Cincinnati thrives when its institutions work together to invest in talent, innovation, and the next generation of leaders.

“The energy and future-focused mindset that Xavier University brings through this unique partnership is very exciting to our organization,” said Bob Castellini, Reds Principal Owner and Managing Partner. “Uniting the strengths of Xavier students, faculty, teams, and alumni with the passion of the Reds’ fanbase and operations will make a lasting impact for years to come.”

The Reds and Xavier share strong ties that date back many decades as Bob Castellini has served as a member of the Board of Trustees for Xavier University as well as Chairman of Xavier’s Development Committee. Chief Communications & Community Officer Karen Forgus previously served on the Xavier University Athletics Advisory Council. The Reds front office features many distinguished Xavier alumni, including Chief Operating Officer Doug Healy, who currently serves on the President’s Advisory Council at Xavier University.

“This partnership is a grand slam for the Musketeer and Reds families, and for the entire Greater Cincinnati community,” said Xavier University President Colleen Hanycz. “From unique career development opportunities to premier educational offerings, we will create ample opportunities for the people who make our two storied organizations so special. I could not be more thrilled at the benefits this will provide for Xavier students and employees in the decade ahead.”

“Today we affirm our shared commitment to creating an impact that reaches far beyond the field or court,” said Greg Christopher, Xavier Vice President for Institutional Strategy and Athletic Director. “This partnership takes advantage of what each organization brings to the table. We’re excited to serve the Reds’ educational and professional development needs, while the Reds will help extend Xavier’s brand and give our students unique intern and work opportunities. I am grateful and proud Xavier is partnering with the Reds in this meaningful endeavor.”

Xavier and the Reds will celebrate the new partnership this week with festivities featuring Reds representatives at the Xavier vs. Butler men’s basketball game at Cintas Center on Wednesday, Jan. 14. Additionally, Xavier will be a part of the Redsfest festivities at the Cincinnati Convention Center on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 16-17, including a special ceremony on the main stage.

There will be a multitude of brand alignment opportunities across both Xavier and Reds marketing assets. These include being featured on websites, signage throughout the Xavier Campus and Great American Ball Park, presence on radio and TV advertisements, and more.