Beth DeBauche has announced her resignation as commissioner of the Ohio Valley Conference effective immediately, the OVC Board of Presidents and Chancellors announced in a press release Thursday morning.  

The associate commissioner, Greg Walter, was elevated to acting commissioner while the conference searches for an interim, according to the board’s press release. 

DeBauche served as commissioner since 2009. According to the press release, she is leaving her role to spend time with her family following the death of her father.  

Serving as the first female commissioner in OVC history, DeBauche was at the helm as the conference navigated the changing landscape of college sports.  

During her time as commissioner, the OVC “navigated significant changes in the collegiate athletics landscape,” the press release read, “including membership transitions, strategic growth initiatives and a steadfast commitment to student-athlete success.” 

This announcement comes nearly two weeks after The University of Arkansas at Little Rock announced its departure from the OVC. Little Rock was the second school this year to announce a departure from the OVC. Tennessee Tech announced it’s intention to leave in August.  

The board will hire an outside company to conduct a national search, according to the press release. 

Gabe Newman can be reached at 581-2812 or at [email protected].