July 6, 2007

CANYON, Texas - This summer, West Texas A&M University President Dr. J. Patrick O'Brien was elected Chair of the Lone Star Conference Council of Presidents in addition to being named to the NCAA Division II Presidents Council, becoming only the second LSC President to serve on that council.

"This is great news not only for Dr. O'Brien and West Texas A&M University, but also for our entire conference," LSC Commissioner Stan Wagnon said. "In just a short time at WT, Pat has been quick to show a keen interest in athletics, enough so that his colleagues already have elected him Chair of the LSC Council of Presidents. Now, he'll have an opportunity to impact all of Division II with his energy, enthusiasm and vision."

"Dr. O'Brien sees the value of intercollegiate athletics within a higher education program and I'm confident he'll be an excellent addition to the NCAA Presidents Council," Wagnon added.

O'Brien replaced Glen Johnson, former Southeastern Oklahoma State University President, who was the first LSC President to serve on the NCAA Presidents Council in the conference's 24-year NCAA membership.

"Both the NCAA and the LSC Presidents Councils make a significant impact in all areas of intercollegiate athletics," WT Athletics Director Michael McBroom said. "Dr. O'Brien's service will be a positive for both organizations as well as for West Texas A&M. His philosophy of athletics mirrors that of Division II, and he believes first and foremost in ideas and opportunities that promote growth and education of students. I'm pleased for him and for WT that he will serve in both capacities."