**J Batt Aims to Lead Michigan State Athletics to New Heights in Big Ten**

EAST LANSING, Mich. -- Newly appointed athletic director J Batt has declared Michigan State University's athletic department to be among the top 10 in the nation. His vision, however, hinges significantly on revitalizing the football program, a crucial revenue generator that has shown inconsistent performance in recent years.

Batt, who was formally introduced on Wednesday, left his post as Georgia Tech's athletic director, a position he had held since the fall of 2022. His mission at Michigan State? To inject new life into a football team that stumbled last season, losing seven games in coach Jonathan Smith's debut year. Batt is committed to providing Smith and his staff with the necessary resources to bounce back.

His tenure at Georgia Tech was marked by significant accomplishments, including hiring football coach Brent Key, who steered the team to consecutive bowl games and earned a spot in The Associated Press Top 25 for the first time in nine years. Additionally, 14 out of 17 teams under his leadership made it to postseason tournaments in his first year.

Having previously served in high-ranking roles at Alabama, including executive deputy athletic director and chief revenue officer, Batt brings a wealth of experience. His connections also played a part in his hiring, with Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo consulting former Alabama and Michigan State coach Nick Saban, who had high praise for Batt.

Batt's extensive resume includes roles at East Carolina, Maryland, James Madison, William & Mary, and North Carolina, where he was part of the 2011 national championship soccer team. His strength as a fundraiser will be crucial in an era where financial support is vital for athletic success.

With the Michigan State Board of Trustees set to vote on his appointment on June 13, Batt is primed to start his role on June 16. He steps in for Alan Haller, whose tenure concluded on May 11. Batt's primary objectives will be to boost the university's fundraising efforts and to transform the football program into a formidable force in the highly competitive Big Ten Conference.