Carneys Point, NJ. - Salem Community College has named Robert Hughes as Director of Athletics. He comes to SCC from Rosemont (Pa.) College.

At SCC, Hughes oversees men's and women's soccer, men's and women's basketball, softball and baseball. The Mighty Oaks compete in the Garden State Athletic Conference in the National Junior College Athletic Association.

Hughes succeeds Dr. Robert Bunnell, whose six-year leadership was instrumental in the reincarnation of SCC Athletics. Owing to Bunnell and his coaches, Mighty Oaks Athletics field competitive teams with nearly 100 students who succeed athletically and academically.

"I'm deeply grateful to President Gorman for this opportunity and excited to build on the strong foundation established by Dr. Bob Bunnell. My family and I are thrilled to join the Mighty Oaks community!", said Hughes.

During his 12 years at Rosemont, Hughes served as interim athletics director in 2021 and 2022, managing all aspects of the department. As head coach for men's basketball, his team won the 2019 Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) championship and qualified for its first appearance in the NCAA Division III Tournament. The 2015 CSAC Men's Basketball Coach of the Year, he guided the program to nine straight playoff appearances from 2014 through 2023. During his Rosemont tenure, he also served as Assistant Athletics Director, Interim Golf Coach and adjunct professor.

Hughes addes, "Salem has incredible potential for growth, and I'm eager to lead a program that excels both in the classroom and on the field. Together, we'll create a community that shapes our student-athletes' lives long after their time in Carneys Point."

Previously, Hughes coached at Washington College, Drew University and Saint Joseph's University. He also was camp coach, talent evaluator and tournament site director for The Hoop Group.

Hughes holds a master's degree from Washington College and a bachelor's degree from Saint Joseph's University.

Bill Clark