PROVIDENCE, R.I. – American Athletic Conference Commissioner Mike Aresco has issued the following statement on the passing of former University of Tulsa President Steadman Upham.
 
Stead Upham was a remarkable man who leaves a rich legacy at the University of Tulsa and at the American Athletic Conference. A skilled and extraordinarily effective administrator, an accomplished academician, teacher and researcher, a talented painter and artist, and a devoted steward of an athletic department committed to the well-being and success of its student-athletes, Stead took the University to the national prominence that it enjoys today, and he was instrumental in building the foundation of the American Athletic Conference. His strong support and commitment helped insure the success of the conference and the national impact of Tulsa's football, basketball and Olympic sports programs. I valued greatly his wise counsel and treasured his friendship. In physical stature, intellect, personality and impact, he was a giant.
 
We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Peggy and to his family as well as to the University of Tulsa and the greater Tulsa communities.