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Dick Harmon: Skousen wore hats well at Y.

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Tuffy Parker | 2:16 a.m. June 26, 2008

Skousen has done some good things at BYU but there continues to be tarnish on any kudos that are given via his handling of the termination of Coach Elaine Michaelis.

There were myriad options that could have been pursued for restructuring the athletic department short of publicly firing Michaelis - she even offered to retire. (If you're interested in just how badly this was handled, look in the D-News archives for Jeff Call's write up from Friday, December 17, 2004.)

One would be hard pressed to find anyone who was more loyal to the university than Coach Michaelis - in my book she is on par with Lavell Edwards for what she contributed to BYU athletics. They should have held banquets, parades and even lighted the "Y" in her honor rather than firing her.

Skousen's mishandling of that situation continues to beg for a public apology to Michaelis. Anything less will be an asterisk on his many accomplishments.

Flock of Boo Birds | 4:54 a.m. June 26, 2008

Although clearly an enormously accomplished academician and administrator, Skousen has long been villified on Cougar sports internet forums for everything that has ever gone wrong in athletics. He was praised for not hiring Chow as HC, then maligned for letting him go to NC St. He was ridiculed for Hale's firing, and verbally attacked for hiring Crowton. He was mocked as Pres. Bateman's "lap dog" when the school started enforcing the honor code more strictly among athletes. Then we had a great season under Crowton and it was quiet, until we started losing. Then it was all Skousen's fault. Then he was criticized for the awkward hiring process with Kyle and Bronco. About the only thing BYU fans haven't blamed Skousen for is BYU's tremendous record of athletic success and world-class facilities, all of which he played a significant role in developing.

All in all I think the only truly questionable judgments he showed were twofold: Agreeing to the marketing change of BYU's traditional Y logo and school colors; and agreeing to subject himself to so much ingratitude and ignorant verbal abuse as he got from BYU's rabid fan base. Happy retirement Fred!

Petey | 6:59 a.m. June 26, 2008

So he is one of those guys who charges $100 plus for text books to poor college students that should only be $10-20, then retires to his ranch.

Done some good things but don't have a bean counter in a high profile job or you will get the legacy he's stamped on the program in the years since Lavell.

I think it is starting to turn around now.

Comments continue below

A glaring omission | 7:23 a.m. June 26, 2008

I know this is supposed to be some kind of going-away tribute to Skousen, but it's hard to believe that Dick left out perhaps the most controversial event from the Skousen regime--his comment about "putting the Chinese to work" in front of Norm Chow. Quite honestly, it's hard to recognize any good that the man accomplished with this fiasco and the Michaelis firing hanging over his head.

C'Mon Petey | 7:35 a.m. June 26, 2008

Do you really think Skousen has any say over what an international textbook publisher charges for the books? They own the publishing rights to his former works and can set the price as high as demand will allow. He may earn some royalties from sales, but those were established as a percentage by contract years ago, when the prices were high but not as outrageous as they are now. I agree books are a big expense, but don't blame Skousen for something out of his control. That just shows your lack of familiarity with the publishing industry.

Wish | 7:53 a.m. June 26, 2008

We wish you well Mr. Skousen.

Jack | 8:10 a.m. June 26, 2008

You win some and lose some. No one is perfect but if you know you did your best to serve, nothing else is matter. Those who complains and think they know whats best for the program need to apply for the job and see if you can do better. Enjoy your retirement Fred!!!You did your best and the program benefitted from it.

MG Duchene | 8:18 a.m. June 26, 2008

Elaine Michaelis should not have been fired. She spent her entire career working and promoting BYU and sacrificing for it. She did a fantastic job.She should have hired a lawyer and took it to court.

Non-believer | 8:39 a.m. June 26, 2008

Sorry, I am not a Skousen fan.There are more negatives than there are pluses. He is retiring to his "beautiful ranch." Obviously he has a ton of money. (BYU pays pretty well?????) Why is it that BYU administrators are so wealthy????Money coming from somewhere.He has done some good things but most of his decisions have shown a lack of compassion, a lack of understanding and a good deal of arrogance. Tom Homoe just thinks he is the AD. He probably has not made an original decision since he has been there. Skousen made them all. Oh well,hopefully they can come up with someone with a little more humanity.

Dick | 8:40 a.m. June 26, 2008

Another thrilling article from the master of nothing.

ret | 8:42 a.m. June 26, 2008

Just keep in mind that we will all be judged by the way we judge others.

Trip | 8:49 a.m. June 26, 2008

It is hard to take anything serious that comes out of the Y. It is truly a castle build to fairyland.

Mike R. | 8:52 a.m. June 26, 2008

He should have hired Ron Haun instead of Gary Crowton. That would have saved us four years of misery. Haun's winning percentage at Ricks College was better than LaVell's in Provo.

LaPearell | 8:52 a.m. June 26, 2008

"I'm optimistic and hopeful we can do that within the MWC framework. If we're not able to accomplish all of our objectives, we may have to pursue other options."

I love BYU's veiled threats of a divorce from the MWC if they don't get their way.

Hey BYU.... Put up or shut up....If you've got a better offer, TAKE IT.

If not, then cool it with the threats.

Ernest T. Bass | 8:53 a.m. June 26, 2008

They should win more national championships.

RE: Glaring Omission | 8:57 a.m. June 26, 2008

Glaring Omission is right. Fred Skouson was a diaster in his role and in his trigger-happy firing of Michaelis, a first class role model. He's the one who should have been fired for all the missteps and poor hiring decisions. I never could understand the cult of loyalty that kept someone like him in the position so long. Good ridance.

Still blue after all these years | 9:03 a.m. June 26, 2008

I sat near Mr. Skousen in a Psych class years ago when he sported a letterman's jacket for his feats on the basketball team; I think this is the same guy. The question I have is: was he involvled in the fiasco around the firing of Roger Reid? That mishandling sets right up there with the ones mentioned above, however, I don't know if he was part of that, or if Mr. Feldman was the sole perpetrator.

I can't imagine the headaches associated with his position, between the heavy handed administration and the teams. However, if one is to endure headaches, why not at BYU? I wish you well, Skousens. Thanks for so much that you had a hand in that was enduring and well done.

Carol | 9:05 a.m. June 26, 2008

The article says Skousen publicly admitted he could have handled the Elaine Michaelis situation better. Please tell us when and where this occured. For me, that is his legacy. Elaine handled it with class and dignity. More than I can say for Skousen and BYU.

Thanks | 9:14 a.m. June 26, 2008

The author failed to even mention the way Norm Chow was promised the head coaching job and then BYU backstabbed him and ran him out of town.

Of course we don't want to only focus on the negative but that's a pretty big hole to leave unfilled when doing reporting.

All in all Mr. Skousen's job seems pretty dang tough. He did a great job overall. Thanks.

Carol | 9:16 a.m. June 26, 2008

I've searched the archives. Can't find where Skousen admitted publicly he could have handled Elaine Michaelis'firing better. Please provide this information!

Fred is the man | 9:18 a.m. June 26, 2008

Most of you have no clue of the pressure, time, and commitment that Fred put into his 38 year career. His positive influence on BYU and his accomplishments FAR out weigh any of his shortcomings. I know Fred personally and he is a great man with a lot of integrity. All of you winers will find something to complain about but the fact is Fred Skousen will be known as a legend of success at BYU. Best wishes Fred!

A new model is needed | 9:39 a.m. June 26, 2008

One of BYU's problems is that it needs to adopt a management model that diffuses authority among more people. A great institution can be ruined when authority is concentrated in the hands of too few. The impediment is the unwillingness to recognize that although BYU is owned by the Church, it is not the Church. When the authority gets spread around, BYU will rise to even greater heights and avoid the mistakes that mar Skousen's record.

Amazing | 9:46 a.m. June 26, 2008

It never ceases to amaze me that there are so many cowards, morons and judgemental people that post on the DNews forums. I can guarantee that each of you would have done far worse in his role. You are blaming the man for being succesful? He is one of the most brilliant minds in accounting and he shouldn't be paid for that!? Everyone makes mistakes but Fred has done a wonderful job. All of you naysayers can continue on being miserable with your own lives. Happy retirement Fred!

New model | 10:02 a.m. June 26, 2008

Oh, yeah. That's what BYU needs. MORE groupthink.

Re; LaPearell | 8:52 a.m. | 10:37 a.m. June 26, 2008

"I love BYU's veiled threats of a divorce from the MWC if they don't get their way."

Did you read this part of the story?:

"BYU TV could be part of the answer. While The mtn. network has between 1 and 2 million viewers, BYU boasts 45 million."

The "veiled threat" isn't necessarily leaving the MWC for another conference. the "veiled threat" is that BYU has other options already available -- their own network and the internet -- that could provide wider coverage (45 million viewers vs 1-2 million viewers) to BYU sports fans.

BYU could say to the MWC and to The mtn. that if they don't get their act together and provide comparable coverage, BYU could decide NOT to participate when The mtn. contract comes up for renewal.

There was a time when every school negotiated their own sports television coverage. BYU was on KBYU and KSL. Utah was on KUTV. That could happen again.

bakerb | 10:50 a.m. June 26, 2008

The Dirty Rat!!! How dare he make enough money to retire into a nice Ranch House. He is just one of those simpleton PHDs. It's not like he really earned anything, like a Plumber or a Used Car Salesman does.

Good for Skousen! I hope he retires very wealthy, with lots of pride for his years of service and the University that was his LIFE for 38 years. Congratulations!

AZCougar | 10:52 a.m. June 26, 2008

You can add that BYU is now considered a "mid-major" who participates in a second rate athletic conference with a lousy TV package to that list of achievements.

New Model? | 11:18 a.m. June 26, 2008

Yes, instead of a head coach we should have a committee of head coaches? I believe that Fred Skousen put his best effort in his responsibilities. I am also sure that he had input from others before making many decisions. Many positive things have occurred. I like where BYU sports is currently and seems to be headed. Congratulations to Fred for his many contributions and enjoy your retirement!

Anonymous | 11:36 a.m. June 26, 2008

Unfortunately, one of Brother Skousen's legacy will be the eliminating of their wrestling and men's gymnastic programs...

Jim | 11:39 a.m. June 26, 2008

Fred:

Thanks for all your service to BYU and our community. I know you did your best and accomplished many great things for the Cougars. Best of luck in your retirement.

Tuffy Parker | 12:01 p.m. June 26, 2008

To be certain, the job/roles that Skousen has held at BYU are tough. Challenges abound in dealing with the heavy handed management style from those above Skousen. Nevertheless, this is no excuse for situation surrounding the Michaelis firing.

From an article by Tad Walch (DNews, Dec. 14, 2004) speaking of the AD re-org, Skousen said "I believe that the decisions we have made recently are in the best interest of the athletic program and the university. In retrospect, I also believe I could have handled the situations with Val Hale and Elaine Michaelis differently and better. . . . I am very sorry my actions have reflected negatively on the university."

This penance toward the university still falls way short of a requisite full and public apology to Michaelis.

I'm really not on a witch hunt here, but I just can't come to grips that it's OK to sweep this under the rug as they hand Skousen the proverbial gold watch at his retirement banquet.

We all make mistakes but owning up to them and making amends is the only real indicator of character.

iceblue | 12:15 p.m. June 26, 2008

Having known Professor Skousen for over 33 years in various capacities,it is clear that he has been an overwhelmingly positive credit to BYU, the Marriott School, the administration of BYU, and the Church. His textbooks and his encouragement of other textbooks from business faculty have done wonders for the reputation of the Marriott School, as well as other initiatives from him and his support of what began when President Bateman was Dean.
The complexity of the challenges he has successfully met is largely unknown to the partially informed detractors in this blog.
His family is his finest legacy. Thank you, Fred, for a great run...

His Legacy | 1:10 p.m. June 26, 2008

His legacy is this:

Signing one of the worst TV deals in NCAA sports history.

Allegedly making racist comments about Chinese in front of Norm Chow.

Forcing out one of the most successful offensive coordinators in the history of college football - Norm Chow.

Hiring Gary Crowton and Val Hale who oversaw one of the most honor code violating teams ever... not to mention one of the worst records.

Firing Elaine Michaelis instead of arranging for a respectful forced retirement.

rattler | 1:33 p.m. June 26, 2008

How about Val Hale's comments in the article regarding the man who fired him? He didn't seem to be bitter like I would have been.
Of course he landed on his feet and is doing quite well now.

skousencuz | 1:46 p.m. June 26, 2008

grandpa james neils skousen would be proud!!!!! I took itermidiate accting. from fred in 1984 he was awesome. i recall he took a week off to reveiw the audit for IBM ? i think. he made more money in one week with IBM than his entire annual BYU salary. fred is one of those unsung heroes who passed up massive wealth and acclaim to serve the LORD at BYU.

Garrett | 1:51 p.m. June 26, 2008

I have had the pleasure of knowing Fred as a student and friend. He is a great man who cares deeply about others. I will overlook any missteps as I hope others will overlook mine.

I admire him for helping shape the Accounting program into the nationally recognized program it has become. His leadership at the business/Marriott School and university level have been exemplary. His being asked to extend his stay was in recognition of his accomplishments and vision. His willingness to do so was an example of his selfless dedication and service.

Onward. . .

Uncle George | 4:12 p.m. June 26, 2008

He should have retired 10 years ago.

Jack Smart | 4:27 p.m. June 26, 2008

I hope you are not Cleon's boy. Best of luck to you.

Re: Trip | 4:57 p.m. June 26, 2008

Yup, BYU has goals and aspirations that seem like a fairy land. Better that then the mundane or non-goals of the generic state colleges in Utah. Keep looking up BYU!

Friend | 5:40 p.m. June 26, 2008

Fred was an exceptional neighbor and is a good man. There were numerous times we woke on snowy mornings to find him plowing our driveway - and I am a Wyoming fan.

Jeff S | 6:27 p.m. June 26, 2008

The day cannot come fast enough to get Fred Skousen out of BYU. He is a poor communicator as well as a poor leader. Thanks the heavens he is finally done.

cougar | 6:35 p.m. June 26, 2008

Great Man, heck of an accountant professor...but in business and administration you can't redo the numbers when you get to the bottom and they don't add up. In other words just way too many terrible decisions made by Skousen. Too many to mention here, but let's hope Samuleson picks someone better to replace Skousen.

Re Jeff | 6:56 p.m. June 26, 2008

Geeze! How would you feel if someone said that about you? That was really harsh!

The good and the bad | 9:11 p.m. June 26, 2008

Nobody's perfect, some of his decisions turned out great, some not quite so much. But the buck stopped at his desk and he had the courage to do the job... 38 years and he accomplished a lot. I took accounting classes from him when he was a lowly BYU Prof, although a darn good one, and I was a lowly student. The guy had talent, integrity and honesty. He was a very hard worker and a great achiever. I didn't like everything he did with the athletic department at BYU but Fred knew a lot more about the situations and problems he faced than the rest of us can even guess. Overall, Fred can be very proud of the job he's done and where BYU sports is now. I know I'm proud and thankful for what he's accomplished and sorry to see him leave.

b dog | 10:45 p.m. June 26, 2008

it wasnt freds fault they had to get rid of the mens gymnastics and wresting. that would be title IX. Thanks..

Doug P. | 11:20 p.m. June 26, 2008

How easy it is to sit in judgment of others. Many of the comments here remind me of the old adage that it is better to remain silent and let people think you're an idiot than speak and remove all doubt. Fred Skousen is a great leader and has been a tremendous asset to this university. I remember his kindness to me personally when, as a young man, I asked his advice on a business issue. He made me feel like my trivial matter was of the utmost importance. His kindness will not be forgotten. Congratulations Dr. Skousen and thank you for your many years of devoted service.

Y Grad, Y Dad | 11:35 p.m. June 26, 2008

I learned a long time ago, by sad experience, that it may be the Lord's University, but it is also a business that has to make business decisions, and just like any other university, sometimes the decisions are wrong, sometimes they are handled poorly, and that is the way it is, even at BYU.

Still, I like it better than any other place, and Fred contributed greatly.

I am saddened to think how Elaine was treated, but I am even more disappointed to read the venom in some of these comments. In both instances, I expected better at BYU.

SJ Bobkins, very inside | 11:38 p.m. June 26, 2008

I should have known the DM would censor the play by play facts involving Skousen, Chow, and Elaine. And that's OK I doubt that there are many BYU athletic folks who will be shedding tears to see Skousen move on. Ira Fulton got the athletic buildings done with much of his own money and his contacts with the Costco builder. The buildings delay was because of Skousens cold feet. The plans were on the table since long before Rondo left, a move orchestrated by Skousen. Let's just say that for an athletic vice president Skousen was a good accountant. With he and bateman at the helm, it's a wonder BYU is still in Div 1-A and not playing in the Big Sky.

MBAandMFA | 1:43 a.m. June 27, 2008

Not even sure why we have this article. Let him go away quietly. LDS Philanthropies garners funds and builds the buildings. Honoring him as he is leaving is disingenious, as he obviously made enough mistakes to warrant criticism. Is anyone really happy about our current situation in the MWC? No TV deal, no exposure, I get tired of bean counters thinking that they can rule the world.

MesaAZ | 6:48 a.m. June 27, 2008

Considering his many missteps, this was a very kind article indeed.

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