CHAMPAIGN, Ill.– Josh Whitman, the University of Illinois Director of Athletics, announced the exciting return of Tom Michael as Deputy Director of Athletics. Michael, a former star player for the Fighting Illini basketball team, brings a wealth of experience after spending 12 years as the Director of Athletics at Eastern Illinois University.
In his new role, Michael will be the second-highest administrator in the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA). He will play a key role in governance at the campus, Big Ten, and NCAA levels. His responsibilities include shaping the competitive strategies of the athletics program and overseeing sport programs, especially football and track and field. He will also manage facilities and the business office.
“It’s fantastic to have Tom back in Champaign,” Whitman said. “His leadership and experience in Division I athletics are impressive. Tom has a deep connection to our community, and I am excited about our collaboration to elevate our program even further.”
During his time at Eastern Illinois, Michael stood out as the longest-serving athletic director in the Ohio Valley Conference. Under his guidance, the Panthers claimed 24 conference titles, a remarkable achievement that included five championships in the 2022-23 season alone. The program’s success led to four more titles in the subsequent season, earning the OVC Commissioners Cup.
Michael’s influence extended beyond wins and losses. He made significant investments in facilities, achieved record-breaking fundraising, and emphasized student-athlete development. His efforts led to increased graduation rates and over 3,000 hours of community service by athletes, highlighting a commitment to both excellence in sports and academics. In addition, Eastern Illinois received consecutive OVC Sportsmanship Awards in 2024 and 2025, reflecting a culture of respect and integrity.
Michael’s leadership isn’t just recognized locally. He served on various national committees, including the FCS Football Oversight Committee and the FCS Playoff Selection Committee. In 2022-23, he was the president of the FCS Athletic Directors Association, demonstrating his influence in shaping college athletics at a national level.
“Coming back to Illinois is a dream come true for me,” Michael shared. “I’m proud of the accomplishments here and eager to contribute to this positive momentum. It’s an honor to work with such dedicated teams and staff.”
Before his time at Eastern Illinois, Michael spent 18 years at the University of Illinois, starting as an academic counselor and evolving through various roles in athletics. He played a vital role in the basketball program from 1991 to 1994, setting a record for career 3-point field goal percentage that still stands today.
Michael holds a bachelor’s degree in speech communication and a master’s in sport management from the University of Illinois. He lives in Champaign with his wife, Shana, and their three children.
As the Deputy AD, Michael will step into a position that has been open since January, showcasing a new chapter for Illinois Athletics. His expertise and passion will undoubtedly enhance the program’s trajectory in the competitive landscape of college sports.
