PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - She is a positive visionary with enough energy to power the entire campus. Very welcoming, one could not help but feel comfortable in her presence. It was an absolute pleasure meeting University of Pittsburgh Athletic Director Heather Lyke. On a very busy morning ahead of a meeting with the school’s chancellor, Heather Lyke was generous enough to carve out 30 minutes (or so) to speak with me on a wide-range of topics. Yes, we are aware that she is nominated for a major, national award. However, I left her office convinced that she is the perfect person to propel Pitt athletics and the city to all-new heights. She is a winner.
What does hot chocolate have to do with her goal to build champions in life. Best view of Pittsburgh? What kind of relationships does she foster among various coaches? What are her real thoughts on NBA-bound Justin Champagnie? How does NFL star Aaron Donald feel about her football coach, Pat Narduzzi, and changes at Pitt? Fifth-year QB Kenny Pickett is back under center so what are her expectations for football? How did growing up in Canton, near the HOF, prepare her for her career? She is a nationally recognized leader: Who inspired her most? Which sport is her favorite? What did she not account for in men’s basketball Coach Jeff Capel? How did Covid strengthen her department and was there any talk of cutting programs as a result of the pandemic? What are her thoughts and initiatives regarding Name, Image, Likeness for student athletes.
These questions and many more will be answered. I hope you enjoy ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-on-One with: Heather Lyke.’
Sincerely,
Kevin Battle