The Big 12 was once thought to be left for dead not all that long ago, but a change in leadership has helped to keep the conference afloat and thriving during a time of evolution and realignment changes across the country. The Big 12 was on the edge of crumbling but proved to be sturdier than the WAC or Big East. Having Bob Bowlsby in place as commissioner has helped and now the conference is rewarding the commissioner for a job well done. According to Dallas Morning News, the Big 12 has extended Bowlsby’s contract by two years, which will run through the 2018-2019 academic year. The conference has confirmed the contract extension.
“The presidents of the Big 12 member institutions recognize the exceptional leadership Bob has provided, and look forward to his long-term stewardship of the Conference,” said Board chairman and Oklahoma State University president Burns Hargis.
“I am honored to serve the Big 12 Conference, and humbled by the confidence, support and generosity of the Board,” commented Bowlsby. “I look forward to a bright future for the Big 12 and am very enthusiastic about continuing my service for at least another five years.”
The new contract has already been approved by the Big 12’s board of directors and was finalized during recent conference meetings. Financial terms of the new contract have not been reported.
Bowlsby was named the commissioner of the Big 12 in May of 2012 after serving as Stanford’s athletics director. He was quick to make clear he would not serve as a puppet for Texas or Oklahoma during a tumultuous time for the conference. His original contract was for five years, which would be set to expire after the 2016-2017 academic year.