The Virginia Tech Hokies are operating on a different level these days. After hiring James Franklin as head football coach last November, it was later revealed that Virginia Tech would also be looking for a new school president and athletic director, as President Tim Sands and Athletic Director Whit Babcock announced their retirements.
Last month, Virginia Tech found Babcock’s successor, hiring Brian White from Florida Atlantic University. Before his time at FAU, White also spent time at Tulsa, Louisiana Tech and Missouri. He’s the son of retired Duke AD Kevin White and the brother of Tennessee AD Danny White and Georgia men’s basketball coach Mike White.
White brought his top assistant, Ryan Gottlieb, over as Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Strategy Officer.
On Tuesday, White made another big-time hire, hiring Brad Bell as the Executive Associate Athletics Director of Advancement and Executive Director. Bell comes to Blacksburg from the University of Georgia, where he spent the past five years as associate athletic director for major gifts. You had me at Georgia.
Bell comes from a fundraising background, with 14 years of experience. He raised tens of millions during his time at Georgia. He played college football at Furman, where he was a four-year letterman.
White released the following statement on Bell’s hiring.
“Brad Bell is exactly the type of leader we wanted to bring to Virginia Tech. His track record of elevating fundraising operations, securing transformational gifts, and building trusted relationships speaks for itself. Brad understands the opportunities in front of us and shares our vision for what’s possible at Virginia Tech. As we continue investing in the future of VT athletics, there is no one better suited to lead the Hokie Club into its next chapter.”
Bell also commented.
“I’m incredibly honored to join Virginia Tech and become part of Hokie Nation,” Bell said. “I want to thank Brian White, Tom Wamsley, and the search committee for this tremendous opportunity. The passion and commitment surrounding this university, its alumni, and its fans are evident across the country. I look forward to building strong relationships with our donors, supporters, and campus partners while helping position the Hokie Club for continued growth. Through our shared commitment, we’ll compete for championships, empower our student-athletes, and strengthen Virginia Tech Athletics for generations to come.”
Yet another reason to be excited about the future of Virginia Tech Athletics.
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