Virginia Tech Names Brad Bell to Lead Athletics Fundraising

New Athletic Director Drives Leadership Shake‑Up

Virginia Tech’s football program entered a new era when **James Franklin** was appointed head coach last November. The university also faced leadership changes in administration, as President **Tim Sands** and Athletic Director **Whit Babcock** announced their retirements. Last month, the school introduced **Brian White** as Babcock’s replacement, bringing a wealth of experience from previous stints at Florida Atlantic, Tulsa, Louisiana Tech, and Missouri.

**White** is not a newcomer to big‑time athletics management; he is the son of retired Duke AD **Kevin White** and the brother of Tennessee AD **Danny White** and Georgia men’s basketball coach **Mike White**. To bolster his staff, White also recruited **Ryan Gottlieb**, moving him from Florida Atlantic to serve as Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Strategy Officer.

Georgia Veteran **Brad Bell** Takes Charge of Hokie Club

The latest high‑profile hire came on Tuesday when **Brad Bell** was named Executive Associate Athletics Director of Advancement and Executive Director. Bell moves to Blacksburg from the University of Georgia, where he spent five years as associate athletic director for major gifts. His 14‑year fundraising résumé includes raising “tens of millions” for Georgia’s athletic programs.

Bell’s ties to college sports run deep; he earned four letters as a football player at Furman before transitioning into athletics administration. His blend of on‑field experience and fundraising success made him a standout candidate for the Virginia Tech role.

Leadership Praise for the New Recruit

Upon the announcement, **Brian White** released a statement highlighting Bell’s ability to “elevate fundraising operations, secure transformational gifts, and build trusted relationships.” White described Bell as “exactly the type of leader we wanted” and emphasized his alignment with the university’s vision for VT athletics.

Bell, in turn, expressed deep personal commitment: “I’m incredibly honored to join Virginia Tech and become part of Hokie Nation,” he said. He acknowledged the search committee and thanked **Tom Wamsley** for the opportunity, noting the passion of alumni and fans across the country.

What This Means for the Hokies’ Future

The succession of high‑profile hires signals Virginia Tech’s intent to invest heavily in both athletic competition and donor support. With a proven fundraiser like Bell at the helm, the Hokies are positioned to secure the resources needed to compete for championships and enhance student‑athlete experiences. Fans can expect continued momentum as the program looks to build on recent leadership changes and lay the groundwork for sustained success.