A consultant hired by Indiana State University to review the Athletic Department presented its report to the Board of Trustees on Friday, part of a progression that started in 2019 with a “dream vision” of new or renovated athletic facilities.
A consultant hired by Indiana State University to review the Athletic Department presented its report to the Board of Trustees on Friday, part of a progression that started in 2019 with a “dream vision” of new or renovated athletic facilities.
The consultant assessed the athletic department compared to other institutions, looking at areas such as spending, the academic performance of athletes, sponsorships, and tickets. The consultant, College Sports Associates (CSA), praised ISU for "fully engaging such a transparent process."
The CSA report was the most thorough review ever of ISU Athletics. Many institutions have looked at how their general operations, including Athletics, can continue to thrive in a post-pandemic world. ISU has many generous athletic donors, but CSA said the Sycamores must redouble their efforts to expand the scope of giving.
"Like many universities, ISU Athletics is at a critical point and the clear solution is to generate new revenues by facilitating support through sales, sponsorships and a culture of philanthropic giving” to athletics, the report said.
The consultant worked with a committee co-chaired by trustee Randy Minas and Interim Provost Christopher Olsen. Committee members represented a cross section of people from inside and outside the university and athletic department, including administrators, faculty, coaches, and alumni.
ISU President Deborah Curtis thanked committee members and the consultant for their work, saying the review will help inform decisions during a new era in Sycamore sports.
"Indiana State University has a long and proud tradition in intercollegiate athletics," Curtis said. "The next step in our progression is a university fundraising campaign that will include athletics. We're excited to have new men's and women's basketball coaches and a newly renovated Hulman Center where we'll cheer on the Sycamores."
Athletics Director Sherard Clinkscales said the report is important for ISU’s future.
"This exercise was crucial as we navigate through this ever-changing environment,” Clinkscales said. “This report will serve as a guidepost as we make critical decisions regarding our athletic enterprise.”
Media contacts:
Mark Alesia, Director of University Communication
(O) 812-237-3837
(C) 812-229-8020
mark.alesia@indstate.edu
Dianne Powell, Associate Director of University Communication
(O) 812-237-8764
(C) 812-878-2131
DianneFrances.Powell@indstate.edu