The vibe coming out of the Pac-12 Conference this summer couldn't have been more grim.

But a La Conner High School alum is providing a rare bit of good news, especially in her hometown, ahead of what will be the final year of the Conference of Champions as it is known.

Ashley Watkins, a 2017 La Conner grad, has been elevated to director of football operations at Washington State University, the youngest sports administrator to serve in that capacity within the Pac-12.

Her promotion was confirmed earlier this year when WSU head football coach Jake Dickert announced 2023 Cougar football and supp...