Nebraska athletic director fired

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=1200&u_sid=10159021

BY DIRK CHATELAIN
WORLD-HERALD BUREAU

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Harvey Perlman this afternoon announced that he fired NU Athletic Director Steve Pederson.

Perlman said he believes Pederson is no longer positioned to move the athletic department forward.

"We are of course disappointed about the progress in our football program," Perlman said. "Steve has done many positive things for Husker athletics during his tenure, but I think only new leadership can objectively assess the state of our program and make the decisions necessary to move us forward."

Pederson has held the position since January 2003. His contract was renewed for five years at the end of July.

"You make the best decision you can with the information you have, " Perlman said.

Since then, Perlman said he has noted a decline in morale in the athletic department and growing concern about retention of key personnel. Paul Meyers, a key fundraiser, was among several people who departed.

Several people came forward with concerns about Pederson's management style and his connection with staff, donors and athletes, Perlman said.

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