Guy Bailey Stepping Down as University of Alabama President

Former Texas Tech president Guy Bailey announced Wednesday he is stepping down as President of the University of Alabama.

Bailey, who left Tech for his new job in September, said he is stepping down to focus on his wife's ongoing health problems.

His wife, Jan, is a Lubbock native and two-time cancer survivor.

Officials at Texas Tech--including Chancellor Kent Hance's office--declined to give their reaction to the news Wednesday afternoon.

When Bailey announced his decision to take the new job this past July, he called it a homecoming. Bailey is a two-time graduate from the University of Alabama.

So far, officials at the university have declined to give any further statements on camera.

Here is the full statement from Guy Bailey and the University of Alabama:

University of Alabama President Guy Bailey's statement:
Today I have notified Chancellor Witt that I am stepping down as President of The University of Alabama.  This is a decision my wife Jan and I made together after much discussion about how we can best address her health, which is the most important priority in our lives.  By announcing this decision today, I hope the Board of Trustees will be in a position to take the next appropriate steps during its meeting in Tuscaloosa this week.  We want to thank the faculty, staff, students, alumni and our many friends for your warm welcome.  My family and I appreciate your understanding and your prayers. 

Statement from Paul Bryant, Jr., President Pro Tempore of The University of Alabama Board of Trustees:
We understand and respect that President Bailey's priorities at this time must be focused on his wife Jan's recovery.  The Baileys are in our prayers and have our support.  We will address the issue of presidential succession at The University of Alabama in a specially called Board meeting Thursday.  

Statement from Dr. Robert E. Witt, Chancellor of The University of Alabama System:
I respect and appreciate President Bailey's decision.  His priorities reflect his commitment to both his wife Jan and The University of Alabama.  He and Jan will remain in our prayers.