Following Michigan State University’s Thursday announcement that vice president and athletic director Alan Haller will depart his post on May 11, 2025, Haller — who spent less than four years in the role — addressed the Spartan community in a statement issued through his attorneys at Blanchard & Walker, PLLC.
"Throughout my career, I have consistently spoken up when I believed something was not right — always guided by a commitment to protect students and uphold the best interests of the University. At times, those decisions have not aligned with individuals in positions of significant influence," Haller said in his statement.
Haller’s tenure coincided with a rapidly changing college athletics landscape and several high-profile situations at MSU.
He hired football coach Mel Tucker, who was replaced in 2023 by Oregon State’s Jonathan Smith following a sexual misconduct investigation.
The football program posted losing records in four of the past five seasons.
Haller also hired hockey coach Adam Nightingale and women’s basketball coach Robyn Fralick, both of whom guided their programs to successful seasons.
During Haller’s tenure, Michigan State captured Big Ten titles in men’s basketball, hockey, women’s cross-country, women’s soccer and women’s gymnastics.
"Although I am deeply saddened to be leaving the University, I am proud of my record and the lasting impact of my work. As I continue to process this decision, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Spartan community for their unwavering support," Haller said in the statement.
He then reflected on his deep ties to Michigan State, both on and off the field.
"Serving as Vice President and Director of Athletics at Michigan State University has been one of the greatest honors of my life. For 32 years, I have been a Spartan—first as a student-athlete in track and football, then as a Police Officer, and later in various leadership roles within Spartan Athletics."
Men’s basketball head coach Tom Izzo and deputy athletic director Jennifer Smith will serve as interim athletic directors while MSU conducts a national search in partnership with search firm TurnkeyZRG.
"To the student-athletes: THANK YOU for allowing me the privilege of serving as your athletic director. It has been an incredible journey — and yes, it has been FUN! Supporting your success has never been just a job; it was my responsibility and my joy to help create an environment where you could thrive and become the best version of yourselves."
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