RIVERSIDE, Calif. — UC Riverside officially introduced Greg Paules as its new director of athletics Monday, as campus leaders praised his vision, leadership and commitment to building a championship-caliber experience for Highlander Athletics.

Speaking at a campus press conference, Chancellor S. Jack Hu, Vice Chancellor Brian Haynes, former interim director of athletics Michelle Almazan and Paules each emphasized a shared belief in the future of UC Riverside Athletics and the role it can play in uniting the university and Inland Empire community.

"Today marks an exciting moment for UC Riverside as we welcome Greg Paules as our new athletic director," Hu said.

Hu said Paules arrives in Riverside at an important time for the department and the university, noting the momentum surrounding Highlander Athletics and the opportunity ahead to continue elevating the student-athlete experience.

Haynes, who chaired the search process, said Paules distinguished himself as a leader who understands the power of college athletics to create belonging, pride and connection across campus.

"College athletics creates exactly that," Haynes said. "It has a way of bringing people together across backgrounds, roles and lived experiences in shared moments of energy, pride and belonging."

Haynes added that Paules' approach aligned with UC Riverside's mission and long-term goals, particularly in supporting student-athletes holistically while positioning the department for sustained success.

Almazan, who served as interim director of athletics during the transition, reflected on the progress the department has made and said the foundation is in place for continued growth.

"This past year has been one of growth for all of us," Almazan said. "We strengthened relationships across campus and remained grounded in what matters most: our student-athletes and all of the opportunities we are creating for them."

Almazan said the department remained focused on stability, support and service throughout the leadership transition while continuing to move Highlander Athletics forward competitively and institutionally.

When Paules addressed the audience, he thanked campus leadership, the search committee, staff members and his family, and said he was honored to begin this new chapter at UC Riverside.

"It's an honor for me, and I'm thrilled," Paules said. "I'm going to give you my best every single day."

Paules said he was drawn to UC Riverside by the university's upward trajectory, its people and the chance to help shape something meaningful for student-athletes and the broader community.

"Just getting here isn't the end goal — it's just the beginning," Paules said. "We don't have to choose or compromise; they get a tremendous athletic experience and a tremendous academic experience."

He added that his vision for Highlander Athletics centers on student-athlete success, competitive excellence and building stronger ties between the department, campus and Riverside community.

"Our goal is to build a program that competes for championships, develops leaders and makes this university proud," Paules said.

Monday's press conference marked the official public introduction of Paules and the beginning of a new era for Highlander Athletics, with university leadership underscoring a collective commitment to continued momentum and long-term success.