MONTGOMERY, Ala. | Alabama State University Athletics has announced a comprehensive reorganization of its administrative leadership structure, positioning the department for sustained growth, enhanced collaboration, and increased operational efficiency. The changes were announced by Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics and Director of Athletics, Dr. Jason Cable.

"This reorganization reflects our commitment to building a forward-thinking, high-performing athletics department," said Dr. Cable. "We are aligning our leadership structure to maximize efficiency, empower our staff, and continue delivering a championship-level experience for our student-athletes, coaches, and supporters."

The new structure is highlighted by the elevation of Cyrus Russ to Executive Deputy Athletic Director/Chief Operating Officer(COO) and Dr. Genese Lavalais to Deputy Athletic Director for Internal Operations/ Chief of Staff/SWA.  Both will serve on the department's executive leadership team while maintaining sport administrator responsibilities.

Russ enters his fourth year at Alabama State, previously serving as Deputy Athletic Director since 2022. In his new role as Executive Deputy Athletic Director/COO he will oversee day-to-day departmental operations, capital improvements, and strategic execution. Prior to joining ASU, Russ held leadership roles at Alcorn State University, including Interim Athletic Director and Assistant Vice President for Compliance and Student-Athlete Services.

Dr. Lavalais, who has been a key leader within the department since 2021, most recently served as Senior Associate Athletic Director, Senior Woman Administrator, and Chief of Staff. In her elevated role, she will lead internal operations, with a focus on student-athlete support, compliance, and organizational effectiveness. Before ASU, Lavalais lead Athletics Academic Support and Life Skills at Hampton University and spent five years at Jackson State University as Associate Athletic Director for Academics and Senior Woman Administrator.

In addition to executive leadership promotions, Alabama State has elevated two rising leaders within its external operations unit.

Ashton McClelland has been elevated to Director of Marketing and Game Day Operations. Since joining the department in 2023, McClelland has played a key role in advancing marketing initiatives and enhancing the game-day experience. A former student-athlete at Texas Southern and Alabama State, he also serves as a game-day liaison for the Southwestern Athletic Conference during championship events.

Khalil Stewart has been promoted to Director of Creative Content, where he will continue to lead the department's digital storytelling, branding, and creative strategy. A Birmingham, Ala., native and 2024 Alabama State graduate, Stewart oversees all social media and content production while managing a team of student creators. His innovative approach has significantly enhanced the visibility and engagement of Hornet Athletics across digital platforms.

"These promotions recognize outstanding leadership, commitment, and the culture we are building at Alabama State," Cable added. "Our team is aligned, energized, and ready to take Hornet Athletics to the next level."