Big Ten commissioner signs deal through 2013

The governing body of the Big Ten announced today that Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delany and the conference have agreed to a contract extension through June 30, 2013.

"The presidents and chancellors of Big Ten institutions are unanimous in their support for the constructive leadership Commissioner Delany has provided this conference during his tenure," said Richard Herman, chairman of the Council of Presidents/Chancellors and also chancellor at the University of Illinois. "Jim has been extremely successful in the development of media-related resources which have directly benefited our athletic programs and the thousands of men and women student-athletes they serve."

Only the Big Ten's fifth commissioner since its founding in 1896, Delany is in his 20th year in that role, which started in July of 1989.

"I am excited to extend my contract with the conference," said Delany. "I am exceptionally fortunate to serve this union of 11 world-class academic institutions which are so fully committed to the academic and athletic success of the student-athlete."