Statement from Chancellor Bowen 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.

SEC Commissioner Mike Slive

"Mike has been a transformative leader for Missouri Athletics since 1998 and he has commanded national respect across the college athletics landscape for his service on numerous NCAA committees. Mike played a critical role in the transition of Missouri into the Southeastern Conference and I will always remember his calm demeanor, his authoritative presence and his infectious enthusiasm as he introduced the Mizzou tradition to the SEC."