Director Focuses on Sports Development
Montecito native and former professional tennis player Alex Nizet will oversee efforts to raise funds, resources and community support for Westmont athletics. Nizet, who recently earned his master’s degree at Yale University Divinity School, joins the college as director of athletic development.
Nizet was a touring professional on the ATP Tour from 1989 through 1993. He was a two-time NCAA All-American at UC Berkeley, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. He was also a High School All-American in 1985 while at Santa Barbara High School.
“Athletics plays an important role in both the development of the individual and the culture of the college,” Nizet says. “As a former student-athlete, I’m excited to be part of Westmont athletics and hope to contribute to the growth of what I believe to be an invaluable piece of the overall college experience.”
He says he’s coming to Westmont at one of the most exciting times for the college’s athletic department.
“Plans are underway for a new baseball facility, soccer field, all-weather track and field facility and a full renovation of Murchison Gym,” Nizet says. “And President Gayle Beebe’s support and excitement about these plans have added momentum and encouraged everyone involved.”
Nizet was formerly the director of partnerships and business development at St. HOPE Academy, a non-profit community development organization founded near Sacramento by NBA All-Star Kevin Johnson. After he earned his juris doctor degree at McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific, he was head of business and legal affairs for Jaffe/Braunstein Films, a prominent television production company.
Nizet hopes to bring his professional experience to bear for the betterment of the Westmont community.
“On an individual level, collegiate athletics serves as a unique teaching tool,” Nizet says. “The student-athlete has the opportunity to learn discipline, teamwork, sportsmanship, integrity, perseverance, and self-confidence. On a broader level, collegiate athletics adds to the spirit and richness of the learning environment and is an exciting way to connect the college to the community at large.”