[Spiny_Norman]

Maybe we shouldn't overvalue a Stanford connection in the next hire, but I wouldn't mind someone who knows that Stanford Athletics is more than just a P&L sheet or budget to be balanced on the backs of cutting sports. The budget, conference revenue, and fundraising are existentially important, but they are important because they support the student-athletes.

To be fair, Muir was pressured by his boss Persis Drell to cut costs. I don't think he initiated that action. My critique of Muir is how he handled that situation. He did not consult with or advance notify the coaches and players of the affected sports. He dumped the news on them and other stakeholders via an email and a web page, both of which said "we will not be taking any questions." That's just bad management.

I think that Bernard Muir was (and is) a good administrator which is an important part of the job. But he was not successful as a leader when leadership was required.

Whomever is hired WILL have to deal with a messy financial situation. The University subsidy for Athletics does take a bit of pressure off to act immediately. But I think that some drastic action (either on the cost or revenue side) is going to be required.

[Spiny_Norman]

Maybe we shouldn't overvalue a Stanford connection in the next hire, but I wouldn't mind someone who knows that Stanford Athletics is more than just a P&L sheet or budget to be balanced on the backs of cutting sports. The budget, conference revenue, and fundraising are existentially important, but they are important because they support the student-athletes.

To be fair, Muir was pressured by his boss Persis Drell to cut costs. I don't think he initiated that action. My critique of Muir is how he handled that situation. He did not consult with or advance notify the coaches and players of the affected sports. He dumped the news on them and other stakeholders via an email and a web page, both of which said "we will not be taking any questions." That's just bad management.

I think that Bernard Muir was (and is) a good administrator which is an important part of the job. But he was not successful as a leader when leadership was required.

Whomever is hired WILL have to deal with a messy financial situation. The University subsidy for Athletics does take a bit of pressure off to act immediately. But I think that some drastic action (either on the cost or revenue side) is going to be required.