Jan. 29, 2001
WACO, Texas - Baylor President and Chair of the Big 12 Board of Directors released the following statement Sunday following the crash of an airplane carrying eight Oklahoma State students and administrators.
"All of us are deeply saddened by the tragedy that has struck the Oklahoma State University family. Every institution of higher education, especially those of us in the Big 12 family, can empathize with the loss of students and staff. Events like this remind all of us of the greatest priorities of life, and that for educational institutions and athletic conferences, our first priorities go far beyond the winning and losing of games but to the deepest priorities of families and friendships and the pursuit of truth and wisdom, even in the face of tragedy. Our hearts and prayers go out to the close friends and family members of those who have experienced most deeply these losses."
Baylor head men's basketball coach Dave Bliss made these comments during Monday's weekly teleconference:
"Obviously it's a sad day for everybody, not just the Big 12. Unfortunately, life sometimes intercedes into the Big 12, whether it is basketball or any aspect. This shakes you right at the roots, and makes you realize how really insignificant basketball games are. This is one of those tragedies that unfortunately are part of life and that only time can heal, but our prayers and thoughts go out to everybody involved."
For more information on the memorial services, etc., go to www.okstate.com.
