WALNUT CREEK, Calif. – The Pacific-10 Conference announced today that the University of Colorado at Boulder has accepted an invitation to join the conference as its 11th member, the first new member since July 1, 1978.

“This is an historic moment for the Conference, as the Pac-10 is poised for tremendous growth. The University of Colorado is a great fit for the conference both academically and athletically and we are incredibly excited to welcome Colorado to the Pac-10,” said Commissioner Larry Scott.

“On behalf of the University of Colorado students, faculty, alumni and fans, we are proud to accept this invitation from the Pac-10 and join the most prestigious academic and athletic conference in the nation,” said Philip P. DiStefano, chancellor of CU-Boulder.

“The University of Colorado is a perfect match -academically and athletically – with the Pac-10,” said University of Colorado President Bruce D. Benson,  “our achievements and aspirations match those of the universities in the conference and we look forward to a productive relationship.”

Commissioner Scott, Chancellor DiStefano, President Benson, CU Board of Regents Chairman Steve Bosley and CU Athletics Director Mike Bohn and others held an official press conference this morning at Folsom Field in Boulder, Colo.

A second Big 12 school is expected to announce it is leaving the conference today.
Reports have Nebraska joining the Big Ten.

No official press conference had been scheduled as of Thursday afternoon.