Michigan State Spartans Athletic Director J Batt Announces Strategic Addition of New Staff Members to Bolster Program Leadership and Elevate Competitive Excellence Across All Sports…read more…

Michigan State Spartans Athletic Director J Batt Announces Strategic Addition of New Staff Members to Bolster Program Leadership and Elevate Competitive Excellence Across All Sports…read more…

East Lansing, MI – July 15, 2025 — In a decisive move aimed at reinforcing the athletic department’s long-term vision, Michigan State University Spartans Athletic Director J Batt has officially announced the appointment of several new staff members across key administrative and sports-specific roles. The move is part of a broader strategic plan to elevate the competitiveness, efficiency, and national standing of MSU’s athletic programs.

During a press conference held at the Skandalaris Football Center, Batt emphasized the university’s renewed focus on innovation, culture, and comprehensive student-athlete development.

> “Today marks another step forward in our commitment to excellence,” said Batt. “We’re bringing in elite talent that not only understands the values of Spartan athletics but also has the experience, energy, and vision to move our programs to new heights.”

Key Appointments and Strategic Focus

Among the most notable hires are:

Dr. Alicia Warner as Senior Associate Athletic Director for Sports Performance and Wellness, who brings a background in elite athlete mental health services from Stanford and Team USA.

Marcus Dillard, formerly of the SEC’s LSU Tigers, will serve as Director of Football Operations, tasked with modernizing team logistics and performance analytics.

Erica Hanley, a Big Ten veteran, has been named Associate AD for Compliance and Student-Athlete Integrity.

The additions also include staff for Olympic sports, digital branding, NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) education, and donor engagement—demonstrating MSU’s multi-dimensional focus on both athletic achievement and holistic athlete development.

> “What we’re doing is not just about wins and losses,” Batt added. “It’s about setting up our student-athletes for success in life, on and off the field.”

Building the Spartan Future

Since assuming the role of Athletic Director in June 2025, J Batt has made clear that his tenure would be defined by strategic growth and collaboration. This wave of staff additions is the first major institutional action taken under his leadership and reflects insights gained from his time at Georgia Tech, Alabama, and other Power Five programs.

Athletes and coaches across the university have voiced support for the new hires.

> “These are home-run moves,” said MSU Head Basketball Coach Tom Izzo. “You can feel the energy changing around here.”

Batt also stressed that MSU is building not only for immediate results but also for sustainable long-term excellence. The hires are expected to significantly strengthen the Spartans’ recruiting, health sciences, operations, and brand presence, key areas in today’s rapidly evolving college sports landscape.

Looking Ahead

The announcement comes at a pivotal time as Michigan State prepares for the 2025–2026 athletic season with new leadership and vision. With the Big Ten expanding, NIL regulations shifting, and national competition intensifying, Batt and his newly formed team appear ready to meet the moment.

> “This is just the beginning,” Batt said in closing. “We’re not just aiming to keep up—we’re aiming to lead.”

As the Spartan community looks forward to fall sports kickoff, fans and alumni are watching closely—and with growing optimism—as J Batt and his team lay the foundation for a bold new era in Michigan State athletics.