As the former director of the University News Service, Amy Phenix was well-versed in the ways of the U when President-designate Eric Kaler made her his first management hire as chief of staff. Since then she has served as his top adviser, especially in matters relating to Gophers athletics, which are among her day-to-day responsibilities. She was a key member of the team that chose Norwood Teague as athletic director in 2012.