Sessions this week for public comment on athletic programs
Oct. 13, 2003
KALAMAZOO -- Western Michigan University's Sports Sponsorship Review Committee, charged with reviewing WMU's Division of Intercollegiate Athletics, will hold two public forums next week.
The forums are scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, and Wednesday, Oct. 15, in the Kirsch Auditorium of the Fetzer Center.
Persons wishing to speak will be registered on a first-come, first-served basis, starting at 5:30 p.m. each day.
To ensure orderly and productive sessions, the following guidelines will be observed:
Persons wishing to comment will be limited to three minutes.
Committee members will solicit input, but will not make any public comments.
Each forum will be limited to two hours in length.
The Sports Sponsorship Review Committee, appointed by Dr. Judith I. Bailey, is conducting a two-month review of current athletics programming. While all 20 varsity sports at WMU will be examined, the committee has been instructed to observe several parameters.
Bailey has instructed the committee that review recommendations should be made with strong consideration given to support of student-athletes' academic performance and the continuance of a safe and competitive athletic environment. WMU will remain a Division 1-A member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, maintain its Title IX compliance and remain an active member of the Mid-American Conference. Continued MAC membership means the University will sponsor six required sports: baseball, men's and women's basketball, football, softball and women's volleyball. WMU also will remain an active member of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association.
Dr. Lewis Walker, WMU professor emeritus of sociology and co-chairperson of the review committee, will speak on behalf of the committee for all public announcements. To arrange interviews, please contact the Office of University Relations.
Media contact: Matt Kurz, 269 387-8400, matt.kurz@wmich.edu