Pro Athlete Community (PAC), a leading organization dedicated to empowering professional athletes at every stage of their careers, has forged an exclusive long-term partnership with the University of Miami Patti and Allan Herbert Business School. This collaboration positions Miami Herbert as the sole academic partner for PAC’s educational initiatives, specifically serving athletes across all major U.S.-based sports leagues, including football, baseball, basketball, mixed martial arts, and soccer.
“We are thrilled to work with the business school at the University of Miami to provide our athletes with exceptional opportunities for learning and development,” said Chip Paucek, PAC co-founder and co-CEO. “This partnership will empower athletes to further their education and pursue passions outside of their sports, enabling them to build meaningful careers and legacies off the field.”
In response to the growing need for professional athletes to prepare for life after sports, Miami Herbert offers two programs: Next Chapter U and The Pro Athlete Business Combine. These non-degree programs are designed to provide athletes with critical skills and knowledge that pave the way for success in post-athletic careers.
- Next Chapter U is a hybrid program for former professional athletes, blending a one-week in-person program with a nine-week virtual component. It focuses on many key areas of development including personal and leadership development, negotiation, real estate, and entrepreneurship.
- The Pro Athlete Business Combine, aimed at current athletes, offers an immersive experience in business education, equipping participants with the tools needed to plan for their future outside of sports. This program is in-person for one week.
Miami Herbert professors and experts travel across the nation to deliver these dynamic programs, with the most recent program held in Austin, Texas. Each program offers athletes the opportunity to develop new competencies, forge connections, and earn certifications that enhance their professional opportunities beyond the playing field.
“The Pro Athlete Business Combine run by PAC was more than just an event—it was a pivotal moment for me,” said Jaelan Phillips, professional football player for the Miami Dolphins. “The connections I made, the knowledge I gained, and the energy from the cohort gave me clarity about my future beyond football. I am thrilled to see my amazing alma mater come together with an organization I love. Athletes need this type of support in their post-playing careers.”
“At Miami Herbert, we believe that lifelong learning is essential for professional success, and this unique partnership allows us to empower athletes to explore new career opportunities,” said Paul A. Pavlou, dean of Miami Herbert. "We are providing the education that helps athletes to build upon their success in sports and pursue new business possibilities that will have a lasting impact on their lives."
Miami Herbert’s executive education programs are globally recognized in the Financial Times and ranked No. 3 in the U.S., and No. 5 in the Americas, for their innovative and tailored approach to professional development. This partnership exemplifies Miami Herbert’s and PAC’s commitment to providing authentic and personalized education that puts the learner’s needs and goals at the forefront.
