"This is absolutely a tremendous hire. The opportunity at NIU is extraordinary because of the incredible job that (former NIU athletics director) Jim Phillips did. Jeff Compher is an outstanding young man who is very capable, well qualified and highly respected. He is a man of integrity and a great strategic planner with an incredible depth of experience. He will clearly continue the great things that Jim Phillips began. This is an outstanding opportunity for Jeff and the University."
- Dutch Baughman, Executive Director, IA Athletic Directors Association
"It's certainly a loss for us here at the University of Washington, because Jeff Compher has been a wonderful friend and administrator. Jeff is a football man first, but he has the compassion and desire to make all of Northern Illinois' programs successful. He's one heck of a guy."
- Tyrone Willingham, Washington Head Football Coach
"Jeff Compher is an extraordinary leader who has a tremendous passion for student-athletes. He's been a great friend and colleague. He's got a great sense of humor and he's the most likeable guy that you'll meet. He has the highest character and integrity. He will really be a contributor to the community and to Northern Illinois University"
- Todd Turner, former Washington Athletics Director
"Jeff Compher is someone that works well with the athletics program. It's not him versus the program. He looks out for the best interests of the athletics department and also works well with the rest of the campus administration."
- Lorenzo Romar, Washington Head Men's Basketball Coach
"Jeff Compher will be a tremendous asset to Northern Illinois. He's a coach's AD that all coaches will enjoy. He has a great personality and has the ability to be on the level of both the coaches and student-athletes. He's one of my favorite guys and I have nothing but good things to say. You have a good one there."
- Todd Raleigh, Tennessee Head Baseball Coach
"Jeff Compher is an exceptional leader with a tremendous enthusiasm for collegiate athletics. With him at the helm, there is no doubt in my mind that NIU will reach new heights as an athletics department."
- Beth Dunkenberger, Virginia Tech Head Women's Basketball Coach
"To be certain, Northern Illinois has just made a tremendous choice in their new athletics director with the selection of Jeff Compher. Jeff is so well respected in the industry; his reputation is second to none. There is no question he will elevate the broad-based program at Northern Illinois both academically, as well as athletically. Jeff is truly one of the rising stars in intercollegiate athletics. Jeff and his wonderful family are so extremely fortunate to joing the Huskie family which is so special."
- Dr. Jim Phillips, Northwestern Athletics Director and former Northern Illinois Athletics Director
"Jeff and his family will be a wonderful addition to the Northern Illinois University community and the Mid-American Conference. Professionally, his breadth of experience and complete skill set ensure continuing success for the Huskie athletics program. Beyond the technical expertise, however, is that in his career Jeff has been at great places with great people - and the values that are important to him from those positions are perfectly aligned with those that mark NIU athletics. Personally, he brings a wealth of relationships with him to DeKalb. In my view, the timing and fit could not be better for all involved."
- Rick Chryst, Commissioner Mid-American Conference
