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Pictured: Memorial Stadium at the University of Missouri, where Mike served as the 18th Athletic Director from 1998 to 2015. Columbia, Missouri.


Welcome to MRJ Advisors


In 2016, Mike Alden founded MRJ Advisors, LLC, a niche consulting firm specializing in providing comprehensive, data-driven support and solutions in university and college settings. To date, MRJ has served many clients, ranging from small, urban colleges to flagship institutions. As a nationally recognized leader in higher education and college athletics, Mike spent his three-decade career building relationships across the country.

Our Mission

MRJ’s mission is to guide leadership teams in higher education to identify strategic priorities in response to institutional needs. We specialize in maximizing the impact of college athletics on the institutions and communities they serve.  

Client Testimonials


“Mike is positioned to provide insight and guidance to any athletics program working to prepare for its future.”

Greg Sankey – Commissioner
Southeastern Conference

“MRJ Advisors took the time to deeply engage with our institution and truly understand our unique needs as Chicago’s only public research university. Throughout our engagement, Mike provided thoughtful and insightful responses to emerging questions. His expertise and knowledge helped us to better understand the rapidly evolving landscape of collegiate athletics.”

Marie Lynn Miranda, PhD – Chancellor
University of Illinois Chicago

“[Mike] is so knowledgeable and appreciates the central role athletics plays in higher education. He provides such valuable insights which helps athletics programs identify competitive advantages.”

Keith A. Gill – Commissioner
Sun Belt Conference

“MRJ Advisors quickly familiarized me with the intertwined landscape of athletics, academics and university culture. MRJ’s deep knowledge, professionalism, ethical practices and Mike Alden’s understanding of my leadership is immensely beneficial.”

Elizabeth Cantwell – President
Washington State University

MRJ by the numbers


75+

combined years
of experience

60+

average constituents
contacted for a project

6

team members

A few at a time

MRJ commits to a limited number of projects at a time to ensure a high-touch, individualized client experience

Pictured: Celebrating Mizzou’s homecoming. Columbia, Missouri.