IRVINE, Calif. – A review of strategic research, a discussion with NCAA President Charlie Baker on the many issues facing NCAA Division I intercollegiate athletics and affiliate membership for selected sports at the University of Hawai`i were among the key actions taken by the Big West Board of Directors at the conference’s annual fall meetings, held December 4-6 in Irvine, Calif.
The Board of Directors is comprised of the CEO’s of the 11 Big West member institutions and is chaired by Pradeep K. Khosla, Chancellor of the University of California, San Diego.
“I am deeply grateful for the leadership and direction provided by The Big West Council and Board of Directors during this time of great change in NCAA Division I athletics,” Big West Commissioner Dan Butterly said. “As the issues and opportunities facing The Big West and all of NCAA Division I athletics continue to evolve, their collaboration, vision and strategic guidance are essential to our continued growth and success."
Research Initiative
The board was briefed on a significant research project undertaken by The Big West in collaboration with the Pictor Group. The project focused on overall positioning of The Big West within NCAA Division I and a strategic direction for maximizing the unique opportunities available to the conference as a result the preliminarily approved NCAA settlement and western conference realignment.
"We thank the Pictor Group for their invaluable contributions in assisting The Big West in development of a clear and strategic vision for the future of our conference,” Butterly noted. “As NCAA realignment continues to shape the landscape of college athletics, this collaborative effort will help guide our strategic direction, ensuring that The Big West remains a bold, dynamic and forward-thinking conference."
NCAA Updates
President Baker provided the Board of Directors with an update on national governance and viewpoints on current issues facing student-athletes competing in NCAA Division I athletics.
“We appreciate the opportunity to engage President Baker in a focused discussion on a series of impactful issues,” Butterly said. "Gaining a clear understanding of the current landscape, as well as the vision of the NCAA President, allows us to better navigate the challenges we face and develop strategic solutions that will strengthen our overall competitiveness."
Affiliate Membership
The Board approved the addition of the University of Hawai`i as an affiliate member of The Big West in the sports of men’s volleyball, women’s water polo, beach volleyball and men’s swimming & diving beginning with the 2026-27 competitive seasons.
“We’re pleased to continue a longstanding relationship with the University of Hawai`i that dates back to 1984,” Butterly said. "By welcoming these programs as affiliate members, we not only bolster the overall strength and prestige of The Big West but also provide our student-athletes with enhanced opportunities to compete at a national level in their respective sports."
Student-Athlete Voice
Big West Student-Athlete Advisory Committee representatives Brody Crouch, a UC Davis men’s water polo student-athlete, and Alexa DeMarse, a UCSD softball student-athlete, also addressed The Big West council regarding the expansion and amplification of the student-athlete voice in governance. The Big West council is comprised of Athletic Directors, Senior Woman Administrators (SWA), Faculty Athletic Representatives (FAR) from all 11 Big West member institutions.