Tom Izzo to serve as co-interim AD at Michigan State during search

Alan Haller is out as Michigan State’s athletic director.

Michigan State University President Kevin M. Guskiewicz announced a change in leadership in the athletic department on Thursday. Haller’s last day at MSU will be May 11.

I’m grateful for Alan’s leadership since I joined the university and appreciate the success our programs have seen under his leadership,” Guskiewicz said in a released statement. “He is deeply committed to this university and has led with honesty and integrity.

Haller, who turns 55 in August, played defensive back at Michigan State from 1988-91. He then had an NFL career from 1992-95.

At MSU, Haller earned his Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. In his post-playing career, Haller returned to his alma mater, serving in the police department for 13 years before joining the athletic department. Haller’s tenure as athletic director began in September 2021.

In 2023, Haller hired former Oregon State football coach Jonathan Smith to lead the Spartans on the gridiron following the dismissal of Mel Tucker. The Spartans were 5-7 in 2024, Smith’s first season leading the program.

Deputy AD Jennifer Smith and Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo will serve as co-interim ADs during MSU’s search for the next full-time athletic director.

Andrew Olson

Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.