Miami University is now the Official University of the Cincinnati Bengals, joining one of the NFL's most exciting franchises as its education partner.
The ties between the Bengals and Miami already run deep. Paul Brown, founder of the franchise, graduated from Miami in 1930 and is a charter member of the university's famed "Cradle of Coaches."
"This partnership is an excellent way to honor the legacy of Paul Brown, a legacy that has united the Cincinnati Bengals and Miami University for years," Miami President Gregory Crawford said. "We are extremely excited for Miami students to benefit from this unique relationship and for them to add value to a first-rate NFL organization like the Bengals."
As the Official University of the Cincinnati Bengals, Miami students will have exclusive opportunities to be involved with the Bengals through internships, job shadowing, on-campus speakers, and many other opportunities.
"We are pleased to welcome Miami University, a top educational institution in the nation, as a valued Bengals partner," said Bengals Chief Partnership Officer Lacy Ekert. "We look forward to building on our authentic history by making an impact through opportunities and insight for students."
Through this partnership, Miami will also receive valuable marketing opportunities. The university will be featured on the team's website and app, as well as within Paycor Stadium through sideline LED corner signage, red zone sponsorship, and on the more than 1,600 TVs positioned throughout the stadium. The partnership also includes radio and TV advertisements; use of Paycor Stadium for university events; social media post sponsorship; brand alignment opportunities; and more.
"Though the primary goal of this relationship is to give our students those exclusive experiences that come with partnering with a premier NFL franchise, it also reinforces our commitment to the city of Cincinnati, and the numerous stakeholders that make it a world-class city," said Ande Durojaiye, Miami's vice president for strategy and partnerships. "Many Miamians are lifelong Bengals fans, so this is also a fun way to engage with our students and alumni, and celebrate Miami's proud tradition as the 'Cradle of Coaches.'"
Paul Brown founded the Bengals in 1968 with the belief that football is life's ultimate embodiment of teamwork and competition.
Brown is an iconic figure in NFL history, renowned for his innovative coaching methods and profound influence on the game. Brown's strategic brilliance revolutionized the sport, shaping its modern landscape and leaving an indelible mark on generations of players, coaches, and fans.
Brown spent two years as Miami's starting quarterback before entering the field of coaching. In exploring his life and contributions, one uncovers not only a master tactician but also a visionary whose impact transcends the boundaries of football.
Brown was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967 and the Bengals Ring of Honor in 2021.
"Paul Brown has an undeniable football legacy of leadership, innovation, and excellence, and it is one Miami University is immeasurably proud to share with the Cincinnati Bengals," President Crawford said. "It is with great pride that we honor – and add to – that tradition with this tremendous partnership with a team that our region has supported passionately for more than half a century."
Established in 1809, Miami University is consistently ranked among the top 50 national public universities by U.S. News & World Report for providing students with an Ivy League-quality education at a public school price. Located in quintessential college town Oxford, Ohio—with regional campuses in Hamilton and Middletown, a learning center in West Chester, and a European study center in Luxembourg—Miami serves more than 22,600 undergraduates across 100 areas of study, and more than 2,200 graduate students through 78 master's and doctoral degree programs. At this comprehensive research university, students engage and conduct research with premiere teacher-scholars. Miami adds $2.3 billion each year to Ohio's economy through innovative partnerships and job creation. Miami is an NCAA Division I school, serving more than 500 student-athletes across 19 varsity sports. For more information, visit MiamiOH.edu.
