Commentary: Crimson or orange - what would Floyd bleed?

PULLMAN - All true Cougar fans will be rooting for the home team in tonight's game against the Oregon State University Beavers, but what about Washington State University President Elson Floyd?

Floyd, 57, has been an ardent supporter of the Cougar football program since taking the helm at WSU six years ago.

However, he was recently nominated to serve on OSU's newly formed Board of Trustees - but hasn't yet been confirmed by the Oregon Senate.

Hmmm, how will this collegiate conflict be resolved? Could cheering for WSU cost Floyd an opportunity to steer OSU straight? Or will he shock friends and family by breaking into the OSU fight song should the Beavers (4-1) score a touchdown?

Floyd, mysteriously, was unavailable for comment. Judging by the behavior of WSU's Board of Regents, though, rabid home-team support is pretty much de rigueur for all university board members.

OSU President Ed Ray may have to step in and do some blocking if he wants to save his colleague from getting sacked.

Like the WSU regents, who meet about six times per year, OSU's trustees will receive no salary and will be responsible for establishing policies, approving academic programs and setting tuition and fees.

After Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber announced his 14 nominees for the board, Ray praised Floyd's selection, saying his "insights and perspectives as an advocate for higher education for all citizens will be a true strength for OSU's institutional board."

Whether Floyd's experience and talent will trump his questionable football loyalties in the eyes of the Oregon Senate, though, remains to be seen. But assuming he can resist shouting "Go, Cougs" until after his nomination is confirmed, Floyd's term on the OSU board would expire June 30, 2015.

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Spence may be contacted at bspence@lmtribune.com or (208) 791-9168.