FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 30, 2026) – Florida Gulf Coast University has announced the hiring of Brian Russo as Assistant Athletics Director, Eagles Club.

In his role at FGCU Russo will lead the Eagles Club, which is the official booster organization for FGCU Athletics. The Eagles Club provides financial support for FGCU's 270 student-athletes and FGCU's 15 Division-1 programs through funding scholarships, special projects, and departmental initiatives.

"I am excited to welcome Brian to FGCU Athletics," said FGCU Director of Athletics Colin Hargis. "He brings a dynamic energy, a proven track record of building relationships and a passion for higher education and intercollegiate athletics. We look forward to the impact he will make working with our wonderful Eagles Club members to support our student-athletes and advance the vision of FGCU Athletics."

Russo joins the Eagles from the Naples Botanical Garden, where he most recently served as Director of Guest Relations & Development Operations. Russo also brings more than seven years of experience in higher education and more than five years of experience in intercollegiate athletics.

Prior to his move to Southwest Florida, Russo served as a development officer at Flagler College in Saint Augustine, Fla. His intercollegiate athletics experience came at the University of North Carolina-Pembroke, where he held the title of Assistant Director of Development for Athletics and Constituent Support.

"I'm incredibly grateful to Colin Hargis and Cindy Learned for entrusting me with this opportunity," Russo said. "It's an honor to join the team and be a part of the FGCU family. I can't wait to get to know and work with our passionate, dedicated Eagle fans, alumni and supporters as we continue to provide a first-class experience for our student-athletes."

Russo joins the FGCU Athletics Advancement staff, which includes Assistant Athletics Director for Major Gifts TQ Humes, Director of Special Events & Engagement Madison Lord and Annual Giving Manager Dana Axner.

Russo began his duties with FGCU March 23.

For more information or to join the Eagles Club, click here. The Eagles Club may be reached by phone at 239.590.1275 or via email.