Kentucky names Michigan State's J Batt athletics director, CEO of Champions Blue
WDRB • • sports
Key Points:
- The University of Kentucky has hired J Batt as its new athletics director and CEO of Champions Blue LLC, succeeding Mitch Barnhart, who is retiring after nearly 24 years.
- Batt previously served as vice president and director of athletics at Michigan State, where he helped secure a historic $400 million commitment and established new revenue streams through Spartan Ventures.
- He also held leadership roles at Georgia Tech and Alabama, setting fundraising records and overseeing major capital campaigns and facility projects.
- Batt is recognized nationally for his strategic vision in college athletics, serving on key committees and as chairman of the College Football Hall of Fame.
- He plans to focus on maintaining Kentucky's championship standards, enhancing student-athlete opportunities, and navigating the evolving landscape of college sports.
