New Fighting Illini Director of Athletics Josh Whitman talks with Ryan Baker about coming home, interacting with Illini Nation, his passion for Illinois and more, in part one (of two) of the latest Ryan Baker Interview (RBI).

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A former Fighting Illini football player, Whitman was introduced as the University of Illinois' 14th Director of Athletics on Feb. 18, 2016. The 37-year-old Whitman comes back to Illinois after serviing as director of athletics at Washington University in St. Louis.

Whitman, a four-year starting tight end and two-time Academic All-American for the Illinois football team, spent parts of four seasons in the National Football League, including stints with the San Diego Chargers, Miami Dolphins, Seattle Seahawks and Buffalo Bills. He has two Illinois degrees, graduating with Bronze Tablet honors in 2001 while earning a bachelor's degree in finance, and graduating from law school summa cum laude in 2008.

Before joining Washington University, Whitman served as the director of athletics at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

ABOUT RBI

RBI is an in-depth interview series hosted by Chicago television personality and #ILLINI alumni Ryan Baker (@RyanBakerMedia). The series runs exclusively on FIGHTINGILLINI.com features current Fighting Illini student-athletes and coaches, as well as alumni and special guests. 

This is the 13th RBI episode. Check out previous episodes below. 

PAST RBIs

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Lou Henson Part 1 | Part 2
Dave Downey Part 1 | Part 2
Tyra Perry Part 1 | Part 2
Tyler Jay