Hackett, a 1963 graduate of Fordham College, first involved himself in Rose Hill athletics as sports editor of The Ram, the school's student newspaper. He also served as an assistant in the Sports Information Office as an undergraduate, eventually becoming the department's director shortly after graduation.
 
Hackett's greatest talents were rooted in his research abilities and he had much to do with bringing Fordham's long and stored athletic traditions to the fore. His tireless effort increased the capacities of the Sports Information Department and was the cause for and increased awareness and interest in Fordham athletics.