And were there legitimate reasons for the delay? Funding issues? Budget issues? Facilities issues? My understanding is that there were.
You are leaving out some important context. Buning didn't start his job reporting to a VP. He was at UND for two years before that happened. The measure was implemented last July at the request of others in the athletic department after it became apparent there were issues with the AD.
So which way do you want it? If Kupchella hadn't cared, he could have simply let the situation continue as it was. Instead, he took action that resulted in Buning being removed.
He does nothing and you complain. He does something and you complain. What do you want? You can't have it both ways.
Criticize the man all you want, but at least be consistent about it and don't leave out important facts.