The Auburn Family is built on a foundation of tradition, excellence, and the unwavering belief that every individual who steps onto The Plains brings something unique and invaluable to our community. Today, we are thrilled to announce the newest addition to our ever-growing family: Jamilah Ali-Shaffer, who joins us as the Senior Associate Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Support and Administration.
Jamilah Ali-Shaffer arrives at Auburn with a remarkable legacy of leadership, innovation, and a deep passion for the holistic development of student-athletes. Her career has been defined by her tireless commitment to ensuring that young men and women succeed not just in their athletic pursuits, but in their academic, personal, and professional lives as well. With decades of experience in athletic administration and student services, Jamilah brings an unmatched expertise to Auburn, and her appointment signals yet another bold step forward for our athletics program and university community.
Throughout her distinguished career, Jamilah has consistently demonstrated that true success in collegiate athletics extends far beyond the playing field. Her philosophy emphasizes comprehensive support—an approach that addresses the academic needs, career development, mental health, leadership skills, and personal growth of every student-athlete under her care. Her impact has been felt across multiple institutions where she has built and elevated programs that serve as national models for student-athlete success. Auburn could not have found a more fitting leader to champion our student-athletes and support them on their journeys through college and into the wider world.
The energy and expertise Jamilah brings to The Plains align perfectly with the Auburn Creed, a guiding document that calls for hard work, education, honesty, and mutual helpfulness. It is clear that Jamilah embodies each of these principles. She has been lauded by colleagues, coaches, and students alike for her authentic leadership style, her open-door policy, and her ability to inspire and empower those around her. Auburn’s commitment to the total student-athlete experience is stronger than ever, and under Jamilah’s leadership, that commitment will continue to grow, evolve, and set the standard for institutions across the country.
As Senior Associate AD for Student-Athlete Support and Administration, Jamilah will oversee critical areas that shape the student-athlete experience at Auburn. Her role will focus heavily on academics, career services, leadership development programs, and life skills initiatives. She will work closely with coaches, university staff, and campus partners to create a seamless network of support that ensures every Auburn student-athlete has the resources they need to thrive both during their time on campus and long after their final competition. Her vision for integrating academic excellence with life preparation will be instrumental in preparing our student-athletes for success in whatever endeavors they pursue after graduation.
Jamilah’s arrival also signals Auburn’s continued investment in diversity, equity, and inclusion, areas that are critically important to the future of collegiate athletics. Throughout her career, she has been a fierce advocate for creating environments where every student-athlete feels seen, heard, and supported. She has been at the forefront of initiatives designed to amplify student voices, build inclusive spaces, and educate communities on the value of diverse experiences and perspectives. Auburn is proud to welcome a leader who will further our efforts to cultivate an environment of belonging and respect for all.
The path that led Jamilah to Auburn is one paved with accolades and achievements. Her leadership roles at previous institutions were characterized by tangible improvements in academic success rates, enhanced mental health and wellness programs, and groundbreaking career development initiatives that opened doors for countless student-athletes. Whether she was spearheading leadership academies, launching innovative mentorship programs, or establishing partnerships with businesses to offer student-athletes real-world experiences, Jamilah’s work has always been rooted in her sincere belief in the potential of young people. She understands that student-athletes are more than competitors; they are scholars, leaders, advocates, and future changemakers.
Her philosophy fits seamlessly with Auburn’s vision for the future. Here on The Plains, we believe that championships are won not only in stadiums and arenas but also in classrooms, in boardrooms, and in communities. We believe in preparing our student-athletes for victories in every aspect of life, and we are confident that Jamilah’s leadership will help us achieve that mission with excellence.
It is also worth noting that Jamilah’s reputation for relationship-building precedes her. Those who have worked alongside her often speak of her innate ability to connect with student-athletes on a personal level, to understand their individual dreams and challenges, and to help them chart a path forward. She is known for celebrating every milestone, no matter how small, and for encouraging student-athletes to set ambitious goals for themselves, both on and off the field. Her ability to foster genuine relationships based on trust and respect is a hallmark of her leadership style and will be a tremendous asset to the Auburn Family.
We are excited for our student-athletes to experience firsthand Jamilah’s dedication to their success. We know they will find in her a champion, a mentor, and an advocate. She will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of Auburn men and women, ensuring that they leave The Plains equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and character needed to make a difference in the world.
As we welcome Jamilah Ali-Shaffer to Auburn, we also celebrate the bright future ahead for our student-athlete support services. With her leadership, we will continue to build a program that not only develops champions but also transforms lives. The Auburn Family has always been about lifting each other up, believing in one another, and striving together for greatness. Jamilah’s arrival is a powerful affirmation of those values, and we look forward to the incredible impact she will make in the years to come.
Please join us in extending a warm Auburn welcome to Jamilah Ali-Shaffer. Her journey with us is just beginning, and we are filled with excitement and optimism as we embark on this new chapter together. The Auburn Family grows stronger every day, and with Jamilah’s passion, vision, and leadership, the future of Auburn Athletics and our student-athlete community has never looked brighter. War Eagle!
