An interview with President of the Board of Regents David Miles on Friday:

What do you think will happen to the Big 12?

“Well, I’m not going to speculate. It certainly is a difficult period for the Big 12, and therefore for Iowa State, which is my primary focus. Having two members of the Big 12 depart in as many days is a real threat to the Big 12 conference. I know that President (Gregory) Geoffroy and Athletic Director (Jamie) Pollard are working very, very hard to make sure that they produce the very best outcome for Iowa State, and they have our full support in doing that.”

What would you hope for the Big 12?

“Well, the Big 12 has been a conference with a great history, and one that I believe has played a very positive role in athletics and for Iowa State. If the Big 12 could continue – and at this point, we still have ten schools still a part of the Big 12 – I think it’s a conference that offers a lot for Iowa State University. Clearly there are lots of things in motion at this point, and who knows what’s going to happen from here.

“I am quite confident that Iowa State can navigate its way through these changes. Athletic conferences have changed in the past; they’ll change in the future. We’re in a period where they are changing now. Iowa State is a strong institution, and we’ll work our way through this.”

UPDATE: On Saturday, Miles released the following statement on Nebraska’s decision to leave the Big 12 for the Big Ten:

The State of Iowa has three great public universities. Today, the university most on our minds is Iowa State University. With the departure of two schools from the Big 12 Conference in as many days, we share the concerns of Iowans across our state with respect to the potential impact on Iowa State.

The Board of Regents is extremely proud of Iowa State. It is an outstanding academic and research institution with a proud history of student-athletes succeeding in the classroom and in competition. And, the Board has every confidence in the leadership of President Geoffroy and Athletic Director Pollard, as the institution navigates what is obviously a very challenging period for Iowa State.

The University of Nebraska will be a solid addition to the Big 10 Conference. Still, its decision increases the pressure on the Big 12 and adds to the challenges facing Iowa State. Whether the Big 12 stays together depends upon decisions that will be made by each of its member institutions. As Iowa State evaluates its options, this Board will work closely with President Geoffroy and Athletic Director Pollard to achieve the best possible outcome for ISU athletics.

All Iowans, not just Cyclone fans, have a stake in the continued success of Iowa State University. On behalf of the Board, I want to thank all of those who have contacted us to communicate their support for Iowa State and to share their suggestions. Your continued support for Iowa State in the weeks and months ahead will be crucial.

Despite the challenges of the moment, we remain confident that Iowa State’s best days lie ahead – in the classroom, in the research lab and on the field of athletic competition.