the right thing to do in the event of an exit. Especially as a leader and popular figure in the organization and community because so many others are also invested and people get caught up in the vision. The leader asks for loyalty in return from those associated with the vision. So naturally it would be wise to return that loyalty with appreciation and acknowledgment. To suggest a person quickly walks away and doesn't acknowledge the past says either one of two things:

1) Something internally wasn't right, environment was toxic to the point of no looking back, personalities clashed, and experience wasn't to his/her liking.

or

2) Leader is pompous, too proud to recognize a team effort, believes expressing appreciation is weak and considered unnecessary, and arrogance is greater than humility.

Now you might suggest the Mark Pope and Kevin Young situations are different but are they really? Mark recognized years ago the chance of a lifetime to join BYU (his words), continue the legacy of Coach Rose, and make Cougar nation proud. So why not recognize these key things upon the departure? Kevin recognized the Phoenix Suns was an opportunity of a lifetime and Suns treated him well (see annual salary) to the point of making sure he closed the loop on every detail prior to dedicating himself to BYU. Kevin has learned that professional lesson of being gracious to those who feed you.

In terms of character, Kevin Young wins all day long. Humble, priorities are square on his family and faith, and understands it is not entitlement but graciousness in what has been offered. Even Calipari had the humility to recognize Wildcat nation for their support. Winnie the Pooh may have ultimately summed up what Pope didn't feel:

"How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard."

Appears Mark Pope didn't have that something that might make it so hard to say goodbye. Best wishes to the Pope family and thank you for what you accomplished at BYU. Bring on Kevin!