Florida State names FSU alum Jeff Purinton as new athletic director
The news comes nearly two months after FSU announced that former Athletic Director Michael Alford would no longer be serving in the role
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) - Florida State University has named its new athletic director.
FSU alum Jeff Purinton is returning to Tallahassee after more than 30 years to serve as Vice President and Director of Athletics, the university announced Monday.
University officials said Purinton’s appointment “marks a return to the university where he began his professional career and developed relationships with some of the most influential figures in Florida State athletics history.”
Purinton currently serves as the Executive Vice President at Learfield, specifically overseeing the company’s relationships with SEC schools, including revenue and NIL.
Before his current role, Purinton worked in traditional athletics administration, serving as AD at Arkansas State for three years after a 15-year run with Alabama, rising from sports information to Executive Deputy Athletic Director.
Before his time with the Crimson Tide and a brief stint with the Orange Bowl, the Palatka native got his start in the Sports Information office at FSU. Purinton started with the Seminoles in 1998 and would stay for eight years.
More Tallahassee News
The news comes nearly two months after FSU announced that former Athletic Director Michael Alford would no longer be serving in the role.
In September, Alford addressed his departure, saying that while he will leave it to others to provide thoughts on their accomplishments and challenges, he is “proud of what we were able to achieve together.”
The new AD hire also comes just a week after Florida State relieved Mike Norvell of his duties as head football coach of the Seminoles following a disappointing home Halloween loss to Clemson.
Nearly two weeks ago, FSU President Richard McCullough released a letter to the public sympathizing with frustrated fans and asserting his commitment to long-term success.
Read more about Purinton here.
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