NCAA SELF-STUDY REPORT AVAILABLE

VIEW SELF-STUDY REPORT - - Updated April 20, 2011 (pdf)

Comments and feedback on self-study can be made to, Roger Anderson, Steering Committee Chair, at randerso@bryant.edu.  Please submit all comments by April 12.

In 2010, Bryant University Athletics began a campus-wide study as part of the NCAA Division I Certification process. Over the past eight months, this self-study has delved into the department’s commitment to academic integrity, governance and rules compliance, diversity and equity, as well as to the welfare and sportsmanship of our student-athletes.

Teams of faculty, staff, administrators, alumni and students examined Bryant University’s intercollegiate athletics program and has concluded that while Bryant’s offerings are strong and supportive, areas for improvement have been identified as the university moves onto the fourth and final year of NCAA Division I certification.

These conclusions are set forth in this 195-page self-study, prepared for NCAA Division I athletics certification by committees representing campus faculty, administrators, alumni and students. The report, including a written plan for improvement, is now available for public review and comment.

“The hard work put forth by each and every member of the various subcommittees is greatly appreciated and has proven so valuable as we go forward in the certification process,” said Director of Athletics Bill Smith. “Members from every aspect of the Bryant community have come together to commit to the continued well-being of our student-athletes in every facet of their collegiate experience. The numerous hours these individuals gave to the report has helped us identify areas where we are very strong, and at the same time, helped us discover areas where we can improve. From these conclusions, these subcommittees have developed plans for improvement and steps to correct areas that were identified as deficient.”

Athletic certification ensures the NCAA’s fundamental commitment to integrity in intercollegiate athletics. The self-study offers an opportunity to educate individuals across campus about the goals and purposes of the athletics program, as well as the many challenges facing athletics and the way in which athletics supports the institution’s overall mission.

The self-study provides a framework for Division I members to show its continuing commitment to institutional control of intercollegiate athletics within the academic setting and serves as a means to ensure that all Division I institutions are meeting the standards adopted by the membership.

Later this month, the steering committee will review public comment and make necessary changes for final approval before the self-study report is submitted to the NCAA.

This fall, as the university begins its fourth and final year of the certification process, a Peer Review Team will visit the Bryant University campus. The external peer review teams are composed of three to five members who are experienced institutional and athletics personnel, and may also include a chancellor or president who will serve as the chair.