Oregon State AD Bob De Carolis resigns after 17 years

Oregon State athletic director Bob De Carolis announced Monday that he was leaving Oregon State after 17 years of service.

De Carolis has spent the past 13 years as the university’s athletic director. His final day will be June 30.

“There is never an optimal time for decisions like this, especially after 17 years of a journey,” De Carolis said in a sttement released by the school. “However, I believe we are in the best possible position in Oregon State University’s history to have success on and off the field.

“As a next step in my life and career, I am looking forward to other exciting opportunities in the world of intercollegiate athletics.”

During De Carolis’ time as Oregon State’s athletic director, the athletic budget increased from $29 million in 2002 to $71.3 million, and he’s overseen a $42 million expansion of the Valley Football Center within Reser Stadium.

Oregon State President Ed Ray said a group of alumni and leaders will form an advisory committee to search for a new athletic director.

“Bob’s contributions were never solely about bricks and mortar,” Ray said. “His first passion has always been about our student-athletes and their success on the field, in the classroom and in life and career. When it came to athletic competition, Bob was clear in his requirement that Oregon State would win the right way and would compete for championships and win with integrity.

“I wish Bob, his wife Sandra, and their family every happiness.”

For more Oregon State news, visit BeaverBlitz.com.

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