Big 12 Commissioner Dan Beebe stepped down from his position today. University of Missouri Chancellor Brady Deaton, the chairman of the Big 12 Board of Directors released a statment along with Beebe. A conference call with Deaton will take place later this evening. Check Missourinet.com for more on this story. (Below are the statements released)
STATEMENT
BRADY J. DEATON, CHAIR, BIG 12 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
“The Big 12 Board of Directors has reached a mutual agreement with Commissioner Dan Beebe that he will leave his position effective today. We sincerely thank Dan who has always demonstrated a total commitment to what is in the best interest of the Big 12 Conference. His energy, devotion and skill in negotiating on our behalf have been tremendous assets that have benefited our member institutions, our student-athletes, our athletic programs and all our fans.”
STATEMENT
BIG 12 COMMISSIONER DAN BEEBE
“I have been honored to serve the Big 12 Conference for the past eight and one-half years, including the last four-plus as its commissioner. I thank all those with whom I have worked over the years. I am especially grateful for the outstanding staff at the conference office who have dedicated so much for the sake of the Big 12. I care deeply for these fine institutions and the citizens they represent. It is satisfying to know the Big 12 Conference will survive, and I congratulate the members for taking strong action to ensure a bright future as a premier intercollegiate athletics conference. As I have stated many times, it is in the best interest of intercollegiate athletics and higher education to maintain the regional connection that is so important for the student-athletes, their parents and the fans. I put all my effort into doing what was best for the Big 12. With great fondness, I wish the Big 12 Conference a long and prosperous future.”