ARLINGTON, Texas – The following statement is from Dr. James Hurley, president of Tarleton State University and the chairman of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Board of Directors.
 
“Over the past several years Brian Thornton has demonstrated exceptional leadership for the WAC, bringing innovative ideas and a collaborative spirit to our membership during a challenging time in college athletics. We wholeheartedly wish him the best as he embarks on his next professional chapter. The WAC has thrived for over 60 years, and we are excited to continue building a bright future for the league together.
 
“The WAC has experienced remarkable advancement in basketball, firmly establishing itself as a premier mid-major conference in recent years. With the reintroduction of football in 2021, the league has seen success in an alliance with the ASUN to create the United Athletic Conference. The league has evolved into a multi-bid contender across several sports, and its member institutions are flourishing, thanks to strong leadership and strategic locations in vibrant, developing areas of the country. This momentum reflects a positive trajectory filled with opportunity and achievement for both the conference and its student-athletes.”
 
By unanimous vote the WAC Board of Dirctors has named Deputy Commissioner Rebekah Ray the conference’s interim commissioner, effective immediately.
 
“Rebekah possesses a deep understanding of the intricate workings and dynamics of the conference with her experience from both the member campus and league office sides of the table,” Hurley said. “Her exceptional leadership is invaluable to our member institutions.”