Jay Darden was named the inaugural Assistant Athletic Director of Leadership Initiatives April 2023 and was later named Assistant Athletic Director of Corporate Sponsorships in July 2024.
In his role, Darden leads the department’s Corporate Sponsorships strategy and partnership development while directing the Leadership Initiatives program, strengthening external partnerships and leadership development opportunities that support Titan Athletics. He also manages student-athlete housing and coordinates operations for the VIP hospitality area during Titan baseball home games.
Prior to joining Cal State Fullerton Athletics, Darden held positions at California State University San Marcos, United Negro College Fund, Howard University Upward Bound, Volunteers of America Los Angeles, California State University Dominguez Hills, and University of California, Los Angeles.
A native of Portland, Oregon, Darden earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Western Oregon University in 2007, where he competed as a football student-athlete. He later earned his master’s degree in Sports Administration and Leadership from Seattle University in 2010.
Darden currently resides in Chino, California with his wife, Rashetta, and their two daughters, Reagan (9) and Journey (6).
