SMU Dismisses Athletic Director Steve Orsini "Effective Immediately"

In a news release Thursday afternoon Southern Methodist University announced that Athletic Director Steve Orsini had been dismissed "effective immediately".

University President R. Gerald Turner spoke briefly on the matter:

SMU prez Turner: "After several discussions over the last few weeks, it became apparent to me that it was necessary to make this change."

— Art Garcia (@ArtGarcia92) May 17, 2012

More from Turner: "A a unified effort is required for future progress in our athletics programs."

— Art Garcia (@ArtGarcia92) May 17, 2012

Orsini has served as SMU Athletic Director for the past six years. A nationwide search for a new Athletic Director will begin immediately according to President Turner. No other details have been given regarding this matter. No speculation has risen that this is in any way related to the recent Larry Brown hiring for the basketball program.

For more information on this matter, stay tuned to SBNation Dallas.