Mike Alden (R) with Missourinet Sports Director Bill Pollock during this interview at Homecoming 2010.

Mike Alden (R) with Missourinet Sports Director Bill Pollock during at interview at Homecoming 2010.

Mike Alden, who has been the Director of Athletics at Missouri since 1998 is abruptly stepping down.  A staff meeting was held at the University this afternoon and Chancellor R Bowen Loftin released this statement through the athletic’s website.

However, Alden is not leaving the University of Missouri.  In a letter that was sent to staff members, Alden stated he will be a part of the College of Education as an instructor for the Positive Coaching Program and higher leadership courses.

His last day at A.D. will be August 31, 2015.

Statement from Chancellor Loftin:

“Over seventeen years of service to the University of Missouri, Mike has transformed our athletics program into one of the nation’s best, with world-class student-athletes, coaches, staff, facilities, affiliations and financial resources. He led our institution’s move to the Southeastern Conference and has been at the helm as our teams won multiple championships over the years. Though I am saddened that Mike will no longer be a member of our leadership team and leading our Department of Athletics, I am truly happy for him and Rockie as he embarks on a new challenge here at Mizzou. Mike will always be a part of our family.

We have already begun a national search for Mike’s successor and I am confident we will find a tremendous leader to carry us forward.”

Chancellor Loftin, Dean Daniel Clay and Mike Alden will be available to the media tomorrow morning at 10:30 a.m. in the Great Room in the Reynolds Alumni Center. Missouri students, faculty and supporters are welcome to attend.

Below is a copy of the letter that Alden sent to staff

Alden letter