J Batt Joins Michigan State as New Athletics Director

News Summary

Michigan State University has appointed J Batt as the new vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics. Batt, previously the athletic director at Georgia Tech, was chosen following a comprehensive search. University President Kevin Guskiewicz praised Batt’s innovative approach. His main objectives will include enhancing fundraising efforts and improving the struggling football program. With a projected contract of around $1.8 million yearly, Batt’s expertise is expected to rejuvenate Spartan athletics and strengthen community support.

East Lansing, MI – J Batt has been appointed as the new vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics at Michigan State University, as announced on June 2, 2025. Batt previously held the position of athletic director at Georgia Tech, where he has been notable since fall 2022. His selection comes after the university conducted a month-long search following the departure of Alan Haller, whose last day at the university was May 11, 2025.

Michigan State University President Kevin Guskiewicz commended Batt for his impressive track record and innovative approach to athletics. Hall of Fame basketball coach Tom Izzo referred to the appointment as a pivotal moment in the history of Michigan State athletics, signifying a hopeful future for the Spartans.

The university’s Board of Trustees is set to vote on Batt’s hiring on June 13, which will finalize his appointment. Following this vote, an introductory news conference for Batt is planned for the Wednesday after the announcement.

During his tenure at Georgia Tech, Batt was instrumental in recruiting key coaching staff, including football coach Brent Key, who turned around the program after a series of losing seasons. He also hired Damon Stoudamire as the men’s basketball coach, with Stoudamire achieving a .500 record in his second season. Batt’s leadership in athletics has been characterized by significant fundraising achievements, having successfully launched a $600 million fundraising campaign for Alabama athletics while serving as executive deputy athletic director there.

At Georgia Tech, he raised over $78.2 million for athletics in his first year, surpassing previous records by over 40%. Batt’s main objectives at Michigan State include enhancing fundraising efforts and reversing the fortunes of the football program, which has faced challenges in recent years, necessitating a change in leadership.

Michigan State football has endured three consecutive losing seasons, finishing with a 5-7 overall record and a 3-6 record in the Big Ten during the first season under coach Jonathan Smith. Batt’s expertise in navigating athletic programs is expected to invigorate the Spartans’ performance and fan engagement.

The anticipated contract for Batt is expected to be around $1.8 million per year, with precise details awaiting confirmation from the MSU Board of Trustees. The university is also looking to invest significantly in the modernization of Spartan Stadium, having approved a three-phase plan that includes $28 million in improvements to enhance facilities and the overall stadium experience.

Batt’s career also reflects widespread experience in intercollegiate athletics, having served at institutions such as East Carolina, Maryland, James Madison, and William & Mary in various administrative capacities. His background includes a collegiate athletic career as a soccer player at the University of North Carolina, where he was a part of the 2001 NCAA championship team.

Connections between Batt and Guskiewicz date back to their time at the University of North Carolina, where both have developed a professional rapport. Batt’s broad experience and industry knowledge come at a crucial time for Michigan State, poised to navigate the changing landscape of college sports.

As Batt transitions to this prominent role, expectations are high for renewing Michigan State’s athletic spirit and ensuring continued success in its programs, reigniting the fanbase’s enthusiasm and commitment to Spartan athletics.

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Additional Resources

• Lansing State Journal
• Wikipedia: Michigan State Spartans
• MSU Spartans
• Google Search: J Batt Michigan State
• ESPN
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Athletic Director
• Detroit News
• Google News: Michigan State Athletic Director
• Detroit Free Press
• On3

Author: HERE Novi