Batt will officially join the university later this summer. Contract details have not been released, though ESPN has reported he is expected to sign a six-year deal.
At Michigan State, Batt served as Vice President and Director of Athletics. He previously held leadership roles at Georgia Tech and Alabama and has built a reputation as a fundraising leader. At Michigan State, he helped secure a commitment of more than $400 million, the largest single gift in college athletics history, and launched Spartan Ventures, a nonprofit modeled after UK's Champions Blue.
UK President Eli Capilouto praised Batt's track record of generating revenue while investing in student-athletes and facilities. Batt said he is committed to maintaining Kentucky's "championship standard" while navigating the rapidly changing landscape of college athletics.
His hiring comes as UK explores new revenue opportunities, including a proposed entertainment district near Kroger Field and Memorial Coliseum. Batt also has national experience shaping the future of college sports, serving on the House Settlement Implementation Committee and as chair of the College Football Hall of Fame.
