AUBURN, Ala. – Introduced as Auburn's 16th Athletics Director, John Cohen spelled out his purpose, goals and mission Tuesday in his first meeting with reporters.
"First of all, it's to serve the Auburn family and Dr. Chris Roberts," said Cohen, who was announced as Auburn's AD on Oct. 31 after spending the past six years as Mississippi State's athletics director.
Auburn University President Dr. Chris Roberts introduced Cohen by outlining his extensive qualifications, saying, "I don't think Auburn could possibly be in better hands."
"I want to make sure that every student-athlete has a positive and productive experience at Auburn University that goes way beyond the experience they've having now," Cohen said.
"My goal is to put Auburn in position to win SEC championships and national championships. My goal is to relentlessly promote this wonderful university."
Following the full scope of compliance, including common courtesy, public service and the Auburn Creed, represents another goal, Cohen said.
Auburn's tradition, Cohen's confidence in Roberts' leadership, and Auburn's coaches and staff weighed into his decision to lead the Tigers' program.
"This is one of the great collections of coaches that exists in the entire country, as well as athletic department personnel," Cohen said. "I feel so privileged with the coaches we have here."
Roberts thanked newly elevated Deputy AD Rich McGlynn for leading Auburn on an interim basis before Cohen's arrival.
"A star not only for me but for this department, this university and quite frankly the Southeastern Conference," Cohen said of McGlynn.
Cohen listed Auburn's recruiting footprint, national brand and the Auburn Creed as qualities that further attracted him to the Plains.
Leaving Mississippi State, his alma mater, was not easy. Coming to Auburn, Cohen says, made a difficult decision less so.
"Auburn is a national brand, Auburn is a powerful entity, and Auburn is an incredible place," he said.
"These people at Mississippi State have been so great to you, it's been such a wonderful experience. 'What are you doing?'" he asked rhetorically. "Then you look on the other side and say, 'Auburn: wow.'
"There's been a whole lot of wow for me, and I've felt that way about Auburn for a long time."
A two-time SEC Coach of the Year at MSU, Cohen coached baseball for 25 seasons before transitioning to administration, a resume that helps him relate to the coaches he leads.
"You understand what it's like," he said. "I've worn the two hats and I think there's some value in that."
Cohen concluded his remarks by addressing the refrain, "Auburn being Auburn," highlighting the program's past and potential.
"Athletes who forever changed the nature of their sport, not just here, not just in the SEC, but nationally," he said, mentioning Bo Jackson, Frank Thomas, Rowdy Gaines, Ruthie Bolton and Suni Lee.
"That is Auburn being Auburn," said Cohen, who then listed Auburn's roster of hall of coaches.
"We have future hall of fame coaches in this room right now," he said. "And I'm thrilled with that."
He referenced Auburn's 22 national championships and nearly 100 SEC championships, along with program traditions such as Tiger Walk, the eagle flight and rolling Toomer's Corner.
"That is Auburn being Auburn," Cohen concluded. "I believe in Auburn and love it. War Eagle!"
'I believe in Auburn': Athletics Director John Cohen
Jeff Shearer is a Senior Writer at AuburnTigers.com. Follow him on Twitter: @jeff_shearer
