The University of Oklahoma is poised to announce the appointment of Roger Denny as its new Athletics Director. This decision follows the retirement of Joe Castiglione, who has led the university’s athletic program since 1998. The formal announcement is expected to take place next week, according to sources familiar with the situation.
Denny currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Senior Associate Athletic Director for the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Illinois, a position he has held since July 2021. He will take over the role previously held by Castiglione, who is set to retire during a press conference on July 8, 2025. This transition marks a significant change in leadership for the Sooners’ athletic programs.
The news was initially reported by Griffin Media Sports Director Toby Rowland and subsequently confirmed by ESPN’s Pete Thamel, who noted that Denny has interviewed on campus multiple times. A deal is expected to be finalized shortly.
Current Role and Responsibilities at Illinois
In his current position at the University of Illinois, Denny oversees a wide range of operations as the sport administrator for the Fighting Illini football program. His responsibilities as Chief Operating Officer include managing internal operations, which encompass areas such as business office functions, facilities and capital projects, human resources, and sports technology units.
Additionally, Denny supervises revenue operations at Illinois, which cover corporate sponsorships, licensing, and public facilities management, including the State Farm Center and Atkins Tennis Center. His role also extends to overseeing housing, parking, and athletics camps and clinics.
Educational and Professional Background
Denny boasts a strong educational foundation with a bachelor’s degree from Southeast Missouri State University, a law degree from Saint Louis University School of Law, and an LL.M. in tax law from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law.
With nearly 15 years of legal experience, Denny previously worked as a partner at the national law firm Spencer Fane LLP in St. Louis, focusing on areas such as executive compensation, private equity, corporate finance, and sports business transactions. His legal expertise is expected to bring valuable insights to the University of Oklahoma’s athletic department.
Denny, originally from St. Louis, Missouri, resides in Champaign, Illinois, with his wife, Alecia, and their twin sons, Trey and Michael.
As the University of Oklahoma prepares for this leadership change, the athletic community looks forward to Denny’s vision and direction for the Sooners’ future in collegiate sports.
