Merritt Norvell, first Black AD at Michigan State, has died

Merritt Norvell Jr., first Black athletic director at Michigan State, has died. He was 79.

A spokesman at University of Neva confirmed Wednesday that football coach Jay Norvell, who is Merritt Norvell's son, took some time away from team because of his far's death. He left Reno on Monday to go to Michigan and was expected back eir Wednesday night or Thursday morning.

Norvell was appointed to Michigan State's spot in 1995 and served until 1999.

“ thoughts of entire Michigan State Athletics family are with family and friends of Merritt Norvell,” said Bill Beekman, Michigan State's current , in a statement. “Beyond his contributions at Michigan State, his impact was felt across college athletics, including at national level. Over last couple days, I’ve been particularly impressed with number of athletic directors I’ve heard from who were impacted by his mentorship."

Michigan State reached Final Four in volleyball, hockey and men's basketball during Norvell's tenure.

Norvell gruated from Wisconsin in 1963 after playing on team that reached that year's Rose Bowl.

“We are deeply sdened to learn of passing of Merritt Norvell," NCAA President Mark Emmert said. “His remarkable legacy in college sports began as a college athlete at Wisconsin and included serving as one of country’s first Black athletics directors at Michigan State. Throughout his career, Merritt was a strong vocate for minority coaches and championed leership and professional development."

Image credits: AP