The NCAA’s Division 1 Football Oversight Committee named Georgia Southern athletic director Tom Kleinlein a member on Tuesday.

Kleinlein will begin a four year term on the first of July. The committee is tasked with recommending improvements to how the game is conducted and maximizing the student athlete experience.

“It’s an honor to be chosen to represent Georgia Southern and the Sun Belt Conference on the NCAA Division 1 Football Oversight Committee,” Kleinlein said in a press release. “I look forward to being able to work with my constituents and help advance college football through enhancing the student- athlete experience, which continues to be a top priority at Georgia Southern.”

Kleinlein will represent the Sun Belt and will still retain the normal expectations of his athletic director responsibilities.

Kleinlein, a former Wake Forest football player has served in athletics administration roles at two other universities, first spending five years as the associate athletic director for Arizona State football, followed by two as the deputy athletics director at Kent State.

He led the transition and decision to move the Eagles into the FBS after decades of FCS dominance. Kleinlein helped manage consolidation with Armstrong and has led numerous investment projects, revenue increases and coaching hires during his eight year tenure.

Michael Smith, The George-Anne Sports Reporter, gasports@georgiasouthern.edu