AD: Despite Big 12 Decision, UConn Still the 'Envy of Many Other Institutions'

STORRS, CT — University of Connecticut officials on Monday offered a variety of reactions to the Big 12 Conference's decision not to expand.

The Big 12 Board of Directors on Monday announced a unanimous decision for the conference to remain with its current membership of 10 institutions.

"We had a very thoughtful and candid meeting which showed a great deal of strength in the Conference," said David Boren, Oklahoma University president and chairman of the Big 12 Board of Directors. "We have a strong commitment from every single member of the board to the cohesiveness and stability of the Conference."

UConn had submitted a proposal for membership, the documents for which can be seen here.

Here is how UConn reacted.

Susan Herbst, UConn president:

"The announcement by the Big 12 Conference against expansion is not unexpected and is indicative of the volatile world of college athletics administration.

"While I am sure many in our community are nervous about what this means for our future, I am confident that we have put our best foot forward with considerable effort to demonstrate how we currently operate our university and athletics programs at a ‘Power 5’ level and will continue to do so.

"We continue to support the American Athletic Conference and thank the league for its understanding during this process. We will remain a part of the conference realignment dialogue and other conversations on the state of collegiate athletics to be sure UConn’s interests are well represented. We also will continue our winning tradition with honor, integrity, and a commitment to the student-athlete first – a future we very much control."

David Benedict, UConn director of athletics:

"This is a time for all of UConn Nation to stand together and support our student-athletes and teams. I understand that this is a very emotional time for our alumni and fans. Emotion is part of what makes college sports great and will help propel our Husky programs forward.

"UConn has a strong national identity that reflects the academic quality of the institution and the high level of athletic achievement that has been built in all sports over the decades.

"Regardless of conference affiliation, UConn has a record of national athletic success that has been the envy of many other institutions. We are proud of what we have accomplished and achieved, and we are committed to making sure all of our athletic programs continue to be positioned to win conference championships and be nationally competitive in the future.

"A lot of hard work went on behind the scenes in UConn’s potential membership in the Big 12, despite the outcome. I want to thank everyone from UConn involved in the process, especially President Susan Herbst, whose leadership and support is critical to the mission of the Division of Athletics.

Larry McHugh, chairman, UConn Board of Trustees:

"UConn has one of the strongest collegiate athletic programs in the nation and is a top 20 public university. We owe a great thanks to President Susan Herbst and Athletic Director David Benedict and their leadership teams, as well as other supporters including Governor Malloy, who strongly advocated for UConn. They put forth enormous effort to quietly fight to advance UConn while respecting the confidentiality of the process."

See the remainder of the Big 12's explanation here.

Photo Credit: Chris Dehnel