Michigan State University in East Lansing is undergoing a leadership change in its athletic department as Athletic Director Alan Haller is set to depart on May 11. University President Kevin Guskiewicz announced that Deputy Athletic Director Jennifer Smith and Men’s Basketball Coach Tom Izzo will take over as co-interim Athletic Directors until a successor is named.
Alan Haller’s reasons for leaving haven’t been disclosed, but President Guskiewicz expressed his gratitude for Haller’s leadership during his tenure. In a statement, Guskiewicz emphasized Haller’s dedication, honesty, and integrity and acknowledged the achievements of varsity teams under his supervision, which include several Big Ten championships in sports such as men’s basketball, women’s soccer, women’s gymnastics, men’s hockey, and women’s cross country.
Before rising through the ranks in the athletic department, Haller was a student-athlete at Michigan State, participating in both football and track. He also dedicated over a decade to the university’s Department of Police and Public Safety before joining the athletic department in 2010.
Haller’s leadership saw him approve a significant 10-year, $95 million contract with football coach Mel Tucker just months into his role in 2021. Despite Tucker’s initial success, his tenure ended two years later amidst controversy connected to accusations of sexual harassment. The incident was linked to a phone call with activist Brenda Tracy in April 2022, leading to Tucker’s dismissal.
Additionally, Haller’s tenure saw challenges as well. In 2022, seven Michigan State football players faced legal action for their involvement in a post-game altercation at Michigan Stadium following a defeat to the University of Michigan.
In the broader context, Haller was also part of the institution when a pivotal complaint was made in 2014 against the disgraced Larry Nassar. This situation eventually led to Michigan State University settling for $500 million with over 300 women and girls who alleged that they were victims of Nassar’s abuse. Nassar is now serving a life sentence in federal prison.
President Guskiewicz elaborated on the future of MSU athletics, underscoring that this is a significant period for college sports where the next director must drive innovation, communications, and community engagement to maintain the legacy and steer towards an ambitious future.