UMass Boston

Robert M. DeGregorio, Jr. ’73 is one of the foremost advocates of women’s college hockey in the country. He is nationally recognized as a pioneer of Title IX, the groundbreaking law that has created an infrastructure for women to pursue their passion in sports. He currently serves as the Commissioner of College Hockey America and the New England Women’s Hockey Alliance. He has nearly a half-century in hockey as a player, coach, college administrator, and commissioner. As the director of athletics at Merrimack College for 19 years, DeGregorio was an advocate for women’s sports. The 15 sport Division II program reached its pinnacle in 1999–2000 when it captured the Northeast 10 President’s Cup, awarded for the top overall performance of all teams. In 2001 the first NCAA Foundation Academic Achievement Awards were announced, and Merrimack came in second out of 264 Division II schools with a student-athlete graduation rate of 86 percent. When he took over as commissioner of the Atlantic Hockey Association, it was a struggling organization that had little relevance in the college hockey world. Through his leadership and know-how, the league grew to become one of the most respected hockey leagues at any level in the nation. He also bolstered the standing of the women’s hockey league, College Hockey America, after he took over as commissioner. His incredible work ethic, commitment to the student-athlete experience, and the respect he maintained in the college hockey world paved the way for numerous league members to qualify for the NCAA Championship and national recognition. Hall of Famer Bill Berglund ’70, a former goaltender with the New England Whalers, NHL scout, and college coach, said, “Bob has been a great supporter of the university’s hockey programs and has shown tremendous loyalty to the university. He is immensely proud of his alma mater. He has worked tirelessly to ensure that the game’s traditions and the individuals who have forged the path, are respected and not forgotten.”