Watts claims that BOT involvement, understanding, or approval is not needed to end an athletics program (per the FAQ section, it's SOP to involve the BOT and Chancellor on hiring and contractual matters).
Source: http://www.uab.edu/athleticsplan/faq
This, however, runs counter to the BOT bylaws. Per Section 10 of the Board Manual:
This committee exists to assist the Board in its oversight of the intercollegiate athletics programs of each campus. The committee shall serve as liaison between the Board and the respective campuses and their athletic departments. It shall advise and consult with the Chancellor of The University of Alabama System and the campus Presidents on all matters that, in the judgment of the Chancellor and Presidents, have longterm impact on the operations, reputation and standing of The University of Alabama System and the campus athletic programs. Its responsibilities shall include monitoring and reviewing institutional compliance with the laws, rules, regulations, and policies of the Board, the campuses, the NCAA, and any other applicable governmental or regulatory agency or body; reviewing athletic budgets, facilities plans and student athletic fees; making recommendations to the Board as part of the annual budget, facilities, tuition and fee approvals; overseeing academic and other support services provided to student-athletes and monitoring their retention and graduation rates; requesting and reviewing reports on major legal, political, and public matters affecting the athletic departments or their personnel; and keeping the Board informed of relevant changes in conference and NCAA affiliations, structures, rules and regulations.
Source: http://uasystem.ua.edu/wp-content/upload...ANUAL1.pdf
I'm fairly certain this discrepancy has been pointed out before. However, I wasn't sure if it was before the most recent updates to the FAQ site (which included an answer re: the lack of BOT involvement) were made.
I would (1) screenshot the FAQ site in case it's scrubbed later and (2) email/tweet this out to every interested party and stakeholder in this fight; especially the faculty, senators, and the media.