TOLEDO, Ohio - Tony Belt has been hired as the associate athletic director for student-athlete academic services at the University of Toledo, Vice President and Director of Athletics Mike O'Brien announced on Monday. Belt's primary responsibility will be to head UToledo's Student-Athlete Academic Services (SAAS) office.

"We are excited to have Tony join our team and lead our SAAS department," said O'Brien. "He brings a diverse background to share with our student-athletes that will be extremely beneficial. Our department has produced impressive results in the classroom, and I believe Tony can continue that success and maximize our student-athletes' academic experiences."

Located in the Larimer Athletic Complex, SAAS is a student-centered, university resource that reports to the Provost's Office.

"We are thrilled to have Tony joining the Rocket family," said Dr. Julie Fischer-Kinney, assistant provost for student success and retention. "We look forward to the many contributions and the impact he will have on student success at UToledo.  Tony brings terrific expertise critical to supporting our student-athletes, both inside and outside of the classroom." 

Belt comes to Toledo after serving as the College of William & Mary's Director of Student-Athlete Support Services, where he oversaw a department that supported 500 student-athletes in academic advising, schedule, admission and eligibility. Prior to his stay in Williamsburg, he worked directly with football and volleyball programs at Duke University (2015-19) that each ranked among the Top 10 in NCAA Academic Progress Rate rankings. Belt has also spent time providing academic support to student-athletes at the University of Louisville (2014-15), Towson University (2013-14) and Virginia Tech University (2012-13).

"I am very excited to join the Rocket Family," Belt said. "I have heard nothing but great things about the University, the athletic department, and the city of Toledo from former colleagues and mentors. The student-athletes have garnered great success and I look forward to helping the University and athletic department set and reach new goals."

A native of Berkeley Springs, W.Va., Belt earned his bachelor's degree in sport administration (2010) and master's degree in education (2012) from the University of Louisville. During this time, he worked with the football program as an intern and graduate assistant in academic services. Belt also enjoyed tremendous success athletically by becoming Louisville's first track and field national champion (indoor long jump) and finished his career as a seven-time All-American and 10-time Big East champion.