Justin Hay Named Athletics Director at Columbus State University

Staff Report

Columbus State University has appointed Justin Hay as its new director of athletics. Hay, who currently serves as deputy athletic director for external relations at Lenoir-Rhyne University in North Carolina, will assume his new role on May 19.

Hay brings with him a strong background in fundraising, facility development and external relations. During his tenure at Lenoir-Rhyne, he helped generate record-breaking revenues, led more than $28 million in facility upgrades and expanded corporate sponsorships by 40 percent.

“I want to thank Dr. Rayfield and the search committee for their confidence in me to lead Columbus State Athletics,” Hay said in a statement. “Columbus State is a remarkable institution with a proud athletic tradition, and I’m honored to be a part of its continued growth and success.”

Columbus State President Stuart Rayfield said Hay’s record made him stand out during the search process.

“Justin’s work ethic, enthusiasm and track record of success at Lenoir-Rhyne, which has the reputation as a top-notch Division II athletic program, made him a clear choice,” Rayfield said. “I’m excited for him to take Cougar Athletics to the next level.”

Hay began his career at Lenoir-Rhyne in 2019 and quickly moved through the ranks. He initially served as assistant athletic director for corporate relations, facilities and game day operations, later overseeing the Bears Club, the school’s athletic fundraising organization, and eventually leading external relations for the university’s 23 NCAA Division II teams.

Some of his key accomplishments include:

• Raising more than $2.7 million in external revenue during the 2023–24 academic year.
• Leading a $225,000 event within its second year.
• Overseeing an $18 million renovation of the university’s football stadium.
• Receiving national awards from the National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators for marketing and engagement efforts.

Prior to Lenoir-Rhyne, Hay held positions at Southwest Mississippi Community College, where he served as assistant director of athletics and assistant baseball coach. While there, he tripled annual fundraising, established a youth club program, secured a corporate apparel deal, and launched a game streaming service.

Hay holds a bachelor’s degree from Faulkner University and a master’s in sports management and sports events security from the University of Southern Mississippi. He and his wife, Ali, have two daughters.

Columbus State will host a news conference to formally introduce Hay following his May 19 start date. Details will be shared in a forthcoming media advisory.