Blacksburg, Virginia – May 17, 2025 – In a move that has sent ripples of excitement and anticipation throughout the Virginia Tech community and the broader collegiate athletics landscape, former Hokies football standout Tim Settle has been appointed as the new Athletic Director for Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. This historic decision marks a significant transition in the university’s athletic leadership, bringing a beloved alumnus with a deep understanding of the institution’s values and a proven track record of success to the helm.
Settle, a dominant defensive tackle who captivated fans during his time in maroon and orange from 2015 to 2017 before embarking on a successful professional career in the National Football League (NFL), returns to Blacksburg with a unique perspective. His appointment signifies a growing trend of former athletes transitioning into high-level administrative roles within their alma maters, bringing firsthand experience of the demands and rewards of collegiate athletics to the decision-making process.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tim Settle back to Virginia Tech as our new Athletic Director,” announced university President Dr. Sarah Miller in a press conference held earlier today at the Merryman Center. “Tim embodies the spirit of Virginia Tech. His dedication, resilience, and passion, both on and off the field, resonate deeply with our student-athletes, coaches, alumni, and fans. We believe his leadership will usher in a new era of success and integrity for our athletic programs.”
Settle, visibly moved by the warm reception, expressed his profound gratitude and excitement for the opportunity. “Virginia Tech is and always will be a special place for me,” he stated. “The lessons I learned here, the bonds I forged, and the unwavering support I received shaped me into the person I am today. To return in this capacity, to have the chance to give back to the university that gave me so much, is an incredible honor. I am committed to fostering an environment where our student-athletes can excel academically, athletically, and personally.”
During his tenure as a Hokie, Settle was a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. His powerful presence and exceptional athleticism earned him All-ACC honors and made him a fan favorite. Following his stellar collegiate career, he was drafted into the NFL, where he played for several seasons, demonstrating the same tenacity and leadership that defined his time at Virginia Tech.
While Settle’s background is primarily in football, sources close to the search committee emphasized that his leadership qualities, his understanding of the student-athlete experience across all sports, and his vision for the future of Virginia Tech athletics were key factors in his selection. The search committee, comprised of university trustees, faculty members, alumni representatives, and current student-athletes, conducted a comprehensive national search before unanimously recommending Settle for the position.
“Tim impressed us with his strategic thinking, his genuine care for the well-being of student-athletes, and his ambitious goals for our athletic programs,” said Board of Trustees Rector, Mr. James Carter, who chaired the search committee. “He articulated a clear vision for building on our existing successes, enhancing our facilities, and fostering a culture of excellence across all sports. His passion for Virginia Tech is undeniable, and we are confident that he is the right person to lead us forward.”
Settle’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Virginia Tech athletics. The landscape of college sports is rapidly evolving with changes in name, image, and likeness (NIL) regulations, the transfer portal, and conference realignments. His experience navigating the complexities of high-level competition, coupled with his deep understanding of the university’s culture, is expected to be invaluable in addressing these challenges and capitalizing on new opportunities.
One of Settle’s immediate priorities will be to engage with coaches, student-athletes, and staff across all of Virginia Tech’s athletic programs. He has expressed a commitment to open communication and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of a unified vision for the future. Plans are already underway for town hall meetings and individual discussions to gather input and build consensus.
Furthermore, Settle is expected to play a significant role in fundraising and alumni engagement. His popularity among former players and the broader Hokie Nation is anticipated to be a major asset in securing the resources necessary to support the university’s athletic ambitions. Enhancing facilities, providing state-of-the-art resources for student-athletes, and ensuring competitive compensation for coaches are all areas where his leadership will be critical.
The appointment of Tim Settle marks a historic moment for Virginia Tech. He becomes one of the youngest athletic directors at a Power Five institution and his background as a recent former student-athlete offers a fresh and relatable perspective. This decision signals a bold and forward-thinking approach by the university, embracing its rich athletic tradition while looking towards a dynamic and evolving future.
The official start date for Settle’s tenure is set for June 15, 2025. A formal welcome ceremony and further details about his strategic priorities are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. For now, the Virginia Tech community is celebrating the return of one of their own, a leader who embodies the heart and soul of the Hokies and is poised to guide their athletic programs to new heights. The roar of the crowd at Lane Stadium and the Cassell Coliseum may soon be matched by the resounding success of all Virginia Tech sports under the leadership of their former defensive stalwart,Tim Settle.
