Virginia Tech is poised to appoint a new leader for its athletic department as Whit Babcock prepares to step down at the end of June 2026. The university has been quietly courting Brian White, the athletic director at Florida Atlantic University, as the front‑runner for the position.
A Proven Builder at Florida Atlantic
White has spent eight years at Florida Atlantic, overseeing a transformation that includes multiple NCAA tournament appearances and a run to the Final Four. His work earned him a spot on Sports Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list in June 2023, underscoring his impact on the program.
Beyond his professional résumé, White comes from a family steeped in college athletics. His father and brothers have held prominent roles in sports administration, a background that could prove valuable as Virginia Tech navigates the shifting landscape of conference realignment.
The administration hopes to finalize the hire before the 2026 football season kicks off, ensuring continuity as new head coach James Franklin begins to shape the team’s direction. The timing reflects a strategic move to align leadership with upcoming competitive ambitions.
White will inherit a department facing heightened expectations in one of the ACC’s most competitive environments. The new athletic director will be tasked with sustaining momentum, managing budgetary pressures, and fostering relationships across campus and with alumni.