Georgia Tech makes major announcement amid athletic momentum

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated Jun 6, 2025 12:00 AM ET

When J Batt announced his departure as Georgia Tech’s athletic director, many Yellow Jacket fans wondered who would maintain the Institute’s athletic momentum. The answer: Jon Palumbo, a name already etched into nearly every major decision at Tech Athletics over the past several years.

Palumbo, the former chief operating officer and executive deputy athletic director, has officially stepped in as interim athletic director, and he brings more than just continuity. He brings proven results.

A key architect behind the resurgence of Georgia Tech’s football program, Palumbo has been the day-to-day administrator for a team that just posted back-to-back bowl appearances for the first time in over a decade. He played a central role in the hiring of head coach Brent Key and was instrumental in bringing in men’s basketball coach Damon Stoudamire and women’s coach Karen Blair, hires that signaled a new era of competitive ambition in Midtown Atlanta.

“Jon has been a central figure in Georgia Tech Athletics’ growth and momentum,” said President Ángel Cabrera. “He cares deeply about our student-athletes, and brings the experience, vision, and steady leadership needed to keep us moving forward during this transition.”

Palumbo’s leadership also extends beyond the sidelines. He’s overseeing the development of the $100 million Thomas A. Fanning Student-Athlete Performance Center, a 100,000-square-foot hub for training, nutrition, sports science, and medicine, built to serve over 400 student-athletes.

The Helluva Block Party, now a signature gameday tradition on North Avenue is another example of his innovation, transforming fan engagement into one of the best atmospheres in the ACC.

While a national search is underway to find the Institute’s next full-time athletic director, Palumbo isn’t just keeping the seat warm. He’s pushing forward.

For Tech fans, that means one thing: the commitment to winning isn’t slowing down.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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