12/09/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 12/09/2024 21:32
Dear Cougs:
This morning the Pac-12 Conference announced the addition of four new members
beginning with the 2026-27 academic year. The four universities, Boise State, Colorado
State, Fresno State, and San Diego State, are like-minded institutions that expand upon the
foundation of a rebuilt Pac-12 Conference.
Today's news is a great start to stabilizing the future of the Pac-12 Conference and
Washington State University. For more than a year, the partnership between Washington
State, Oregon State, and the Conference has been united in forging a future that continues
the tremendous legacy of the Pac-12 Conference. We appreciate all the efforts and
dedication from Commissioner Teresa Gould and her team to ensure the future success of
the Pac-12.
The four newest members to the conference bring a demonstrated commitment to
competing at the highest levels. With this initial step toward financial and membership
stability in place, the Pac-12 will continue to evaluate additional membership expansion
opportunities.
In my final year as President of Washington State University, I had four focus areas I wanted
to address before my tenure concluded. One of those was securing a long-term home for
Cougar Athletics. For more than a century, Washington State University has competed for
conference and national titles as a member of the Pac-12. This recent announcement
ensures that it will continue for WSU's student-athletes.
We appreciate the continued support of Cougars everywhere as we build upon the
tremendous history of Washington State University.
Kirk Schulz, president, Washington State University