ANNUAL MEETING – 2013

2013 Meeting Minutes

December 19, 2013

Teleconference

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • Bill Campsey, San Jose State University
  • David Clough, University of Colorado
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Azure Davey, NCAA
  • Diane Dickman, NCAA
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting"). While certain items on the 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

The meeting was called to order at 12:30 p.m. Eastern time by the chair, Brian Shannon.

  1. Governance Update. The board members present on the call discussed upcoming conference meetings and the January 2014 NCAA Convention. Brian indicated that a single proposal was expected. David Clough stated that he has heard that a lot of the membership is uncomfortable with weighted voting. The group also discussed concern that the faculty voice is not a prominent part of the policy making group in the proposals they have seen. The board decided to try to communicate their concerns about FAR involvement in policy with the governance steering committee members on the NCAA Division I Board of Directors (chaired by Nathan Hatch). It was noted that they were supportive of several elements and would like to provide additional input regarding the substructure. Brian noted that he could put something together before Christmas.
  2. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 12:55 p.m.

November 21, 2013

Teleconference

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • John Bruno, Ohio State University
  • Bill Campsey, San Jose State University
  • David Clough, University of Colorado
  • Fred Green, Troy University
  • Dennis Phillips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Jo Potuto, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  • Martha Putallaz, Duke University
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Azure Davey, NCAA
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting"). While certain items on the 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

The meeting was called to order at 12:33 p.m. Eastern time by the chair, Brian Shannon.

  1. February In-person Board Meeting. Brain Shannon included an attachment with the tentative schedule for the February in-person board meeting. The seven NCAA staff members that have been requested have all agreed to attend:
    1. Mark Emmert
    2. Jim Isch
    3. Brian Hainline
    4. Mark Lewis
    5. David Berst
    6. Jon Duncan
    7. Donald Remy
    The meeting agenda will be developed around their schedules. Brian noted that he expects to complete all business by the end of the day Friday, February 21, 2014. Azure asked for anyone who had a specific topic they wanted presented to email her so she can ask the presenter to prepare to address that topic.

    Because the meeting will be after the 2014 NCAA Convention, the board requested that Jean Frankel attend to address next steps following the NCAA Division I Board of Directors' actions.
  2. Faculty Athletics Representative Association (FARA) Update. Bill Campsey has been elected to the FARA executive committee. Brian noted that Bill’s interim title as the Mountain West Conference 1A FAR representative has been removed. He will serve on both the FARA executive committee and the 1A FAR Board of Directors.
  3. Governance Update. Brian noted that he hoped that by now there would be a greater sense of what the January National Meeting will look like, but there has been nothing distributed yet. Azure reminded the board that November 15 was the deadline for ideas, so they are taking the next steps to review those. The board discussed the action of the five Bowl Championship Series conferences to develop their concept of a new structure. Brian asked John Bruno to communicate the 1A FAR Board’s position with Gene Smith who is part of the group working on the BCS ADs' proposal. John offered to let Gene know that the board is available for assistance if needed. The board also created a subcommittee consisting of Jo Potuto, David Clough, John Bruno, Fred Green and Brian to respond to any requests.
  4. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m

October 24, 2013

Teleconference

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • Bill Campsey, San Jose State University
  • David Clough, University of Colorado
  • Fred Green, Troy University
  • Dennis Phillips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Martha Putallaz, Duke University
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University
  • Azure Davey, NCAA
  • Diane Dickman, NCAA
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting"). While certain items on the 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

The meeting was called to order at 12:32 p.m. Eastern time by the chair, Brian Shannon.

  1. September Meeting Debrief. Brian Shannon circulated feedback from the 1A FAR Conference prior to the call. The response was generally positive, with comments that the topics were good. Both the NCAA Research staff and Chief Medical Officer Brian Hainline were especially well-received. There were several comments indicating that the group would like to hear from them again. Some thought the discussion of the governance proposal could have been more in-depth. Some athletic directors mentioned to Brian that perhaps more FARs could attend the athletics director sessions. Brian noted that he would speak to Dutch Baughman, executive director of the 1A Athletic Directors Association, about that.
  2. 1A FAR Budget. Brian noted that the budget has been sent out, but he also noted that at this time most of the conferences expenses have not been paid as he is still waiting for bills to arrive.
  3. Website. Jim Atwood reported that the website domain name has been secured until 2018. The cost was almost the exact amount budgeted for technology.
  4. Governance Structure. Brian noted that at this time the feedback seems to lean toward keeping the existing subdivisional system while allowing Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) institutions to have significant vote weighting. Bill Campsey noted that the smaller conferences are not supportive of weighted voting, while Jim noted that the MidAmerican Conference (MAC) supported weighted voting as opposed to a separate division. Multiple board members noted that regardless of the structure, there is a need to include diverse representation of practitioners in the policy development.
  5. February In-person Board Meeting. Brian asked from whom at the NCAA the board would like to hear at the February meeting in Indianapolis. The following list was generated:
    1. Mark Emmert
    2. Brian Hainline
    3. David Berst
    4. Jon Duncan
    5. Donald Remy
    Brian asked that any other suggestions be emailed to him.
  6. Legislative Council Summary. Brian noted that this summary was sent out this morning. He noted there were several pieces of health and safety legislation and a few items that came out of the NCAA Working Group on Collegiate Model – Rules (Rules Working Group).
  7. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 1:05 p.m

September 22, 2013

DFW Hilton, Dallas, Texas

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • John Bruno, Ohio State University
  • Bill Campsey, San Jose State University
  • David Clough, University of Colorado
  • Fred Green, Troy University
  • Dennis Phillips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Jo Potuto, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  • Martha Putallaz, Duke University
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University
  • David Szymanski, University of Cincinnati
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Jean Frankel, Ideas for Action
  • Dutch Baughman, Executive Director, 1A Athletics Directors Association (ADA)
  • Azure Davey, NCAA
  • Diane Dickman, NCAA
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting"). While certain items on the 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives (FAR) Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. Central time by the chair, Brian Shannon.

  1. In–Person 1A FAR Board Meeting. Brian announced that the Board’s in-person meeting is scheduled for February 20–22, 2014, in Indianapolis, Indiana.
  2. Legislative Agenda.
    1. Brian distributed a handout from the Rules Working Group (RWG) for the Board’s review. He reported that the thought-leaders’ reviews were being routed to the NCAA Division I Legislative Council and the NCAA Division I Leadership Council. He noted that the football group will be sending their issues directly to the NCAA Division I Board of Directors. The remaining topic for the RWG is recruiting. They have a conference call September 27.
    2. Brian reminded the group that there is still a moratorium on new legislation, although it appears the football proposals may be allowed to proceed.
  3. Meeting with Coalition on Intercollegiate Athletics (COIA) Representatives. Brian and David Clough reported on their meeting with representatives of the COIA September 21. They noted that the 1A FAR Board and COIA seem to be in agreement on several points, including the principle that the collegiate model should be maintained. Members of the COIA Board, however, continued to express a desire to have the NCAA mandate a role for faculty governance groups within intercollegiate athletics. Brian and David had stressed the 1A FAR position that engagement between athletics, the FAR, and faculty governance groups should be determined locally on each campus, and that no mandate from the NCAA was necessary or desirable. The two groups appear to agree on the importance of faculty engagement with intercollegiate athletics, but note that there are a variety of different ways to engage. Ultimately, the 1A FAR Board noted that although no one model will work at all institutions, communication between faculty and athletics should be emphasized.
  4. Dutch Baughman, Executive Director of the 1A ADA. Dutch met with the Board and noted that the 1A ADA first met with COIA a number of years ago, and over time COIA wanted to formalize that relationship. However, Dutch stated that the 1A ADA would rather emphasize the relationship with the faculty athletics representatives rather than the faculty senate. Dutch also described the ADs’ views on governance.
  5. Governance Model. Brian reported that they have received a lot of feedback on their proposal, and most of it has been positive. Some Groups have suggested that they are moving too far ahead, but Brian pointed out that they simply put forward one set of ideas in order to be part of the conversation.

    Jean Frankel agreed that the purpose of the process at this time is to get different voices out there. She noted that others are developing concepts as well. In January, at the 2014 NCAA Convention, she expects more conversations about developing a cohesive design. Jean noted that what happens between October and January is critical. November 15 is the deadline for all concepts, and Jean anticipated that she will be attending a number of conference meetings to share the various ideas. She noted that she hoped the outreach would result in informed discussion rather than debate. Dutch noted that the 1A Directors of Athletics (ADs) continue to be closely aligned with the 1A FARs, especially in regard to student-athlete well-being as a core value. He also noted the need to maintain a strong commitment to compliance.
  6. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 11:45 a.m.

September 5, 2013

Teleconference

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • John Bruno, Ohio State University
  • David Clough, University of Colorado
  • Fred Green, Troy University
  • Dennis Phillips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Jo Potuto, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  • Martha Putallaz, Duke University
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University
  • David Szymanski, University of Cincinnati
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Azure Davey, NCAA
  • Diane Dickman, NCAA
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting"). While certain items on the 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives (FAR) Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

The meeting was called to order at 12:32 p.m. Eastern time by the chair, Brian Shannon.

  1. Update on the September 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives In-Person Meeting.
    1. Brian reported that he will supply the laptop for all presentations during the in-person meeting. Any speakers with their own presentations should be told to bring them on a jump drive.
    2. Brian noted that registration for the September meeting is down slightly. Thus far, 65 faculty athletics representatives have registered and there are 90 registrants overall including several members of the media. Brian reminded the other board members that he sent them each a list of all registrants from their conferences. He encouraged the board members to remind FARs from their conferences that have not registered to consider attending.
    3. Brian noted that NCAA President, Mark Emmert is making himself available for a meeting with board members Monday, September 22 from 2 to 3 p.m. Brian has a conflict and cannot attend, but Jo Potuto, David Clough and David Szymanski will be able to meet with him. Brian said other Board members are welcome.
  2. 1A FAR Academic Award. Jim provided an update, noting that he has heard from all 1A conferences. His only concern was former Big East institutions that may not be aware that they may make a nomination for this award. He will reach out to the FARs at all the institutions he expected to hear from. There was a brief discussion about the award’s requirements that student-athletes participate in a sport sponsored by the 1A conference. Jim noted that Rhonda Hatcher may be able to provide the history of the decision but that the requirement has been in place for some time.
  3. Governance Document. The board discussed the draft governance document that Jo prepared with editing by Brian and David Clough. Members were encouraged to send feedback as soon as possible. Brian asked the Board for support of the position statement, and noted that he wanted it finalized and released in advance of the 1A FAR Conference. There was a lengthy discussion about the board members representing the board or their conferences in voicing their support of the document. Brian noted that this document is being presented as the 1A FAR Board’s position, though it should be shared with the representatives’ conferences. Others agreed.

    Brian stated that the final version of this document will be sent to the Division I Board of Directors, the President’s Advisory Group, Jean Frankel, the press and the 1A FAR list serve. Brian and Jo will also present this at the 1A FAR Annual Meeting in their 30- minute slot.

    The board members agreed to go forward with the document, subject to editing, over the next few days.
  4. Exchange with Jean Frankel. Jean Frankel of Ideas for Action joined the call at 1 p.m. She continues her role as a consultant for the NCAA in the process of reviewing the Division I governance structure. She engaged the board in a lengthy discussion about the review. Jean acknowledged that the 1A Board is very committed to the process of reviewing the structure and developing options for broader consideration. The board members and Jean discussed the board’s draft of a governance model. They discussed points of frustration with the current model and suggestions for improvements. Jean will be attending the board meeting prior to the September 1A FAR meeting in Dallas.
  5. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 1:32 p.m.

July 25, 2013

Teleconference

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • John Bruno, The Ohio State University
  • David Clough, University of Colorado
  • Jean Perry, University of Nevada
  • Dennis Phillips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Azure Davey, NCAA
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting") in accordance with NCAA policy regarding minutes of all Association entities. While certain items on the 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

The meeting was called to order at 12:35 p.m. Eastern time by the chair, Brian Shannon.

  1. Update on the July NCAA Division I Committee on Academic Performance (CAP) Meeting. David Clough provided an update from the committee’s July 16 – 17 meeting. He noted that the highlights included a review of a draft policy addressing academic fraud and misconduct, a continued review of academic requirements for four-year transfer student-athletes, modified progress-toward-degree standards for high-achieving student-athletes, research on degree clustering and updates to the committee’s policies and procedures. David noted that he asked NCAA research staff member Todd Petr to include the presentation on degree clustering in his session at the September meeting.
  2. Update on the September 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives In-Person Meeting. Brian reported that most presenters and panelists have been confirmed. Lou Anna Simon, president of Michigan State University, is no longer available on Monday, so they intend to move her presentation to Sunday. The plan is to switch her session with the NCAA Research presentation. John Bruno agreed to call both President Simon and Todd Petr to confirm whether that would work. Southern Methodist University men’s basketball coach Larry Brown is no longer available. Brian noted that Jo Potuto has requested that former Indiana State University athletics director Andi Myers take his place on that panel. Jo reported to Brian that she will know for certain August 1 if Andi can attend. If she cannot attend, David offered to contact Ceal Barry, interim athletics director at the University of Colorado.
  3. Review of Institutional Control Document. Brian thanked Steve Turner for sending some edits to the “Standards for Effective Compliance and Risk Management Programs Maintaining Institution Control” document created by the 1A Athletics Directors Association. He noted that if anyone else has changes they should send them to Brian He will forward them on to Dutch Baughman.
  4. Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) Inclusion/Exclusion in Governance Structure. Brian and Jo are compiling examples of major undertakings within the governance structure and the faculty athletics representatives involvement in those processes. He asked that the NCAA staff send the Rules Working Group (RWG) thought leader rosters to him. Jim Atwood suggested he also reach out to former 1A FAR Board members to ask for similar information. David commented that he spoke to Deputy Commissioner of the Pac-12 Conference Kevin Weiberg recently regarding the governance issues. Kevin encouraged the 1A FAR Board to formulate a proposal for a new Division I governance structure to share with other groups. Brian noted the Jo has already offered to draft a model.
  5. June 24 Minutes. The minutes form the June 24 teleconference were approved.
  6. 1A FAR Award. Jim Atwood reported that the 1A FAR Award process is going online. He has sent an email to each conference requesting applications, and asked if anyone sees errors in the addresses to please let him know.
  7. Other Business. Steve reported that the faculty senate at his institution has received communication from the Coalition on Intercollegiate Athletics (COIA). Brian noted that he and David will be meeting with COIA’s steering committee, including chair Michael Bowen, in September prior to the 1A FAR meetings. They will be discussing ways for FARs and faculty senates to work together. Steve offered to send Brian and David a copy of the communication his institution received.
  8. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m.

June 27, 2013

Teleconference

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • David Clough, University of Colorado
  • Fred Green, Troy University
  • Jean Perry, University of Nevada
  • Dennis Phillips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Martha Putallaz, Duke University
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University
  • David Szymanski, University of Cincinnati
  • Jack Thomas, New Mexico State University
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Diane Dickman, NCAA
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting") in accordance with NCAA policy regarding minutes of all Association entities. While certain items on the NCAA 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

The meeting was called to order at 12:32 p.m. Eastern time by the chair, Brian Shannon.

  1. Update on the September 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives In-Person Meeting.
    1. Brian reported that all presenters and panelists have been confirmed except Larry Brown. Paul Rogers at Southern Methodist University will contact Coach Brown again after his (Paul’s) vacation.
    2. Brian reminded the Board that Melinda Moore sent out a chart for speaker and panelist contact information. He asked that the Board members please complete the chart and return it to Melinda.
    3. Martha Putallaz noted that she thought the Board had approved covering Jay Bilas’ travel expenses to attend the conference. She offered to confirm that he will not be covering his own expenses and report back to Brian.
    4. Brian noted that there was also the question of covering Bill Byrne’s travel expenses, as he is a retired athletics director. Jo Potuto was not on the call to confirm, but Brian offered to check with her.
    5. Brian noted that he intended to send out “teaser” emails for the conference in late July. Registration will open in early August. He also noted that the 1A athletics directors, who are meeting immediately following our meeting, will be invited to all FAR conference sessions.
  2. Advisory Council of Athletics Directors. Brian introduced for discussion NCAA President Mark Emmert’s plan to connect with an advisory group of athletics directors. He asked if such a group of FARs should also be developed. David Clough noted that he attended a meeting with President Emmert in which President Emmert stated that the press was making more out of the advisory council than was necessary. Brian also noted that he is drafting an email response to President Emmert to request a meeting with a small group of 1A FARs.
  3. Rules Working Group (RWG) Update. Brian provided an update on the work of the RWG following their last conference call on June 26. He referenced a letter that Boston College FAR Bob Taggart sent to President Emmert on behalf of the ACC FARs. Brian noted that the letter dovetailed with the RWGs direction – specifically that the RWG is sensitive to the departure from the regular Division I governance structure. Brian noted that the remaining “Phase 1” proposals are being reworked, and NCAA staff is seeking additional membership input by August 1. The RWG is expecting to have another call to review the new versions in late August or early September. “Phase 2” items will be moved back into the regular governance structure and will not be overseen by the RWG.

    Brian also reported that the RWG has embraced a provision to create certain parameters for new legislation on a go-forward basis. These parameters include identification that the proposed legislation aligns with a Division I Commitment, that it is enforceable, and provides an explanation of how it will benefit student-athletes (SAs).

    Finally, Brian noted that the Division I Board of Directors expects a presentation from Jean Frankel in August to aid in discussion about a new Division I governance structure.
  4. Changes in Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) Conferences. Brian noted that on July 1 the old Big East Conference becomes the American Athletic Conference and the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) will no longer be considered FBS. The Board thanked Jack Thomas for his service as the WAC representative. Additionally, all Board members were asked to send lists of new FARs (either new in the position or new to the conference) to Melinda so she can add them to the list-serve.
  5. Follow-up on Interaction with Coalition On Intercollegiate Athletics (COIA). Brian noted that he and David Clough will meet with representatives from COIA’s leadership on Saturday prior to the September conference to look for common ground and ways for the two groups to support one another.
  6. Other Business. Board members brought up the following other business:
    1. Katy Yurk will be assisting Jim Atwood in coordinating the 1A FAR Academic Excellence Award certificates. Katy noted that the NCAA staff will meet next week to get the programming off the ground. Jim reported that he will remind the conferences that the request for nominations will be coming soon.
    2. Brian reminded the Board that Azure Davey will be joining as a staff liaison in mid-July and Diane Dickman noted that Azure will be in attendance in September.
    3. Jean Perry suggested that Brian tease the September conference session with the Center for Spectator Sport Security to athletics directors, as she has heard there is a lot of interest in their work. Brian asked all Board members to encourage their conference FARs to share the program schedule with their athletics directors as well.
    4. David Clough reacted to an article on transfers that Jo forwarded. In particular he expressed concern about SAs who transfer to pursue a graduate program at another institution after graduation. David noted that the Pac 12 Conference is considering a conference rule to prohibit this activity if nothing is done at the national level. Diane responded that the Academic Cabinet and the Committee on Academic Performance are looking at both four-four transfer legislation and academic requirement accommodations for high-achieving SAs that complete their undergraduate degree requirements with eligibility remaining.
  7. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m.

May 23, 2013

Teleconference

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • John Bruno, Ohio State University
  • Fred Green, Troy University
  • Dennis Phillips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Josephine (Jo) Potuto, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University
  • David Szymanski, University of Cincinnati
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting") in accordance with NCAA policy regarding minutes of all Association entities. While certain items on the NCAA 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

The meeting was called to order at 12:33 p.m. Eastern time by the chair, Brian Shannon and the Minutes of the April teleconference were approved by the Board.

  1. Update on the September 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives In-Person Meeting. Melinda Moore asked that speakers' contact information be sent to her as the speakers are confirmed. The following updates were provided:
    1. Brian reported that Larry Brown is a candidate for several professional coaching jobs, so he may not be able to attend; Andi Myers remains as our first alternate.
    2. Brian reminded the Board that they will meet Sunday morning from 10 to 11:45 a.m. before the conference begins at noon.
  2. Working Group Updates. Brian provided an update from the Rules Working Group's last teleconference. He also noted that the Integrity Group has not yet been established.
  3. Future Teleconferences. The Board confirmed that it has teleconferences scheduled for June 25 and July 27, but that no teleconferences are scheduled beyond that date. Katy will check with Anne at the NCAA to see if the other teleconferences can be set up.
  4. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 1:02 p.m.

April 25, 2013

Teleconference

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • David Clough, University of Colorado
  • Fred Green, Troy University
  • Dennis Phillips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Josephine (Jo) Potuto, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  • Martha Putallaz, Duke University
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University
  • David Szymanski, University of Cincinnati
  • Jack Thomas, New Mexico State University
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Diane Dickman, NCAA
  • Jennifer Fraser, NCAA
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting") in accordance with NCAA policy regarding minutes of all Association entities. While certain items on the NCAA 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

The meeting called to order at 12:33 p.m. Eastern time by the chair, Brian Shannon.

  1. Update on the September 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives In-Person Meeting. Brian referenced the draft agenda he distributed prior to the teleconference. The following updates were provided:
    1. Media panel featuring Jay Bilas. – Martha Putallaz reported that Jay Bilas intends to arrive Sunday and stay over Monday. The Board decided he can appear as an individual rather than as part of a panel, but agreed to solicit questions before his session in addition to allowing attendees to ask questions while present. The Board also discussed the timing of this session and intends for it to occur Sunday afternoon in an attempt to engage the Division I director of athletics group.
    2. Disparity of relationships between coaches and student-athletes and faculty and students. – Jo Potuto reported that there will be five panelists and a moderator for this session. Paul Rogers has invited Larry Brown, but there is no word as to whether or not he can attend.
    3. Scientific topic. – Dennis Phillips reported that Stacey Hall, associate director at the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security will be available to present. He may ask if the director, Lou Marciani, can also make the meeting. Jim Atwood reported that he will proceed with a sleep researcher for the 2014 meeting.
  2. Directors of Athletics Meeting about Possible Greater Involvement in NCAA Leadership. Jo noted that she senses a major shift in Division I governance as an outcome of directors of athletics meeting to discuss what they perceive as a diminished leadership role. The Board discussed the question of institutional control and the "campus voice," and expressed concern that faculty athletics representatives could be left out of a new model. Jo brought up the need to have some time at the September meeting to address new developments.
  3. Follow-up on the Board's Response to Coalition on Intercollegiate Athletics' Proposals. Jenn Fraser provided some background regarding the NCAA staff's role with Coalition on Intercollegiate Athletics (COIA). She noted the staff attends COIA's meetings, but the NCAA does not provide any financial support to that organization. Brian noted that while COIA continues to try to develop a role or purpose, the Board has already responded with the position that COIA's proposed governance concept is not workable. The Board determined that it is important to maintain open communication with COIA, at least at the leadership level. Members noted that they trusted Brian's judgment in interactions with COIA leadership.
  4. NCAA Division I Committee on Academic Performance and Initial-Eligibility Standards. David Clough provided an update on the NCAA Division I Committee on Academic Performance's April meetings. He noted that the committee will send the NCAA Division I Board of Directors feedback on the initial-eligibility standards that includes support for the minimum core-course grade-point average of 2.300 for competition eligibility and the core-course progression (i.e., 7/10/16) effective 2016. He further reported that the committee also supported the intermediate sliding scale, effective in 2018.
  5. Rules Working Group Update. Brian provided an update on the work of the Rules Working Group.
  6. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 1:36 p.m.

March 28, 2013

Teleconference

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • John Bruno, The Ohio State University
  • Fred Green, Troy University
  • Jean Perry, University of Nevada
  • Dennis Philips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Josephine (Jo) Potuto, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  • Martha Putallaz, Duke University
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University, Chair
  • David Szymanski, University of Cincinnat
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting") in accordance with NCAA policy regarding minutes of all Association entities. While certain items on the NCAA 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

  1. Welcome to David Szymanski. The Board welcomed David Szymanski, faculty athletics representative at the University of Cincinnati, who was participating in his first teleconference.
  2. Preparation for September's 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives In-Person Meeting. The Board reviewed the draft agenda and discussed firming up the schedule. It was agreed that questions for panelists could be submitted beforehand to aid the flow of those presentations. Other points of discussion included:
    1. Presentation on NCAA research used to inform academic policy decisions. – John Bruno reported that Todd Petr with the NCAA research staff has agreed to present.
    2. Media panel featuring Jay Bilas and possibly others. – Martha Putallaz reported that she will ask Jay after the basketball season if he would prefer being part of a panel or presenting on his own.
    3. Disparity of relationships between coaches and student-athletes and faculty and students. – Jo Potuto reported that it may be difficult to get an active women's basketball coach on her panel for student-athlete treatment due to the recruiting calendar. They may opt for a men's basketball coach instead. Rhonda Hatcher or Paul Rogers may be able to secure a men's basketball student-athlete.
    4. A scientific/research topic. Considering one of the following:
      1. Sleep deprivation and the impact it has on athletics and academic performance. – Jim Atwood reported that he has researched the work of Eve van Cauter at the University of Chicago, who has done extensive research on the impact of sleep loss on glucose metabolism, as a possible presenter.
      2. Psychological impact of abusive or inappropriate language used by coaches. – The group determined that if the sleep deprivation presentation works out, this may not be pursued.
  3. N4A Request for Review/Comment/Possible Support of Their Feedback to the NCAA Division I Committee on Academic Performance. - Brian Shannon requested feedback on the draft of the letter of support for the N4A's position on changes to initial-eligibility standards. He noted that several members had already provided their thoughts and encouraged others to do so as soon as possible.
  4. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 1:10 p.m.

February 21-22, 2013

National Office

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • John Bruno, The Ohio State University
  • David Clough, University of Colorado
  • Fred Green, Troy University
  • Jean Perry, University of Nevada
  • Dennis Philips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Josephine (Jo) Potuto, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  • Martha Putallaz, Duke University
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University, Chair
  • Tom Stephens, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick
  • Jack Thomas, New Mexico State University
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Jennifer Fraser, NCAA
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting") in accordance with NCAA policy regarding minutes of all Association entities. While certain items on the NCAA 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

  1. Preparation for September's 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives In-Person Meeting. The Board confirmed that the annual meeting of Division IA Faculty Athletics Representatives will be held in Dallas, Texas September 22-23, 2013. The meeting will begin with a Board meeting Sunday, September 22 from 10 a.m. to noon. The following agenda items, with assigned members to coordinate in bold, will be featured at the annual meeting:
    1. Update from the Board provided by President Lou Anna K. Simon, Michigan State University. – John Bruno
    2. Update from NCAA President Mark Emmert. – Brian Shannon
    3. Presentation on NCAA research used to inform academic policy decisions. – John Bruno
    4. Media panel featuring Jay Bilas and possibly others. – Martha Putallaz
    5. Disparity of relationships between coaches and student-athletes and faculty and students. Possible panelists discussed were Bill Byrne (former AD at Texas A&M), Connie Yori (women's basketball head coach, University of Nebraska), Andi Myers (director of athletics emerita, Indiana State University), Sheri Coale (women’s basketball head coach, Oklahoma), Maddie Salamone (president of Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Committee) or another national SAAC representative recommended by Maddie, and a local dean of students. – Jo Potuto and Martha Putallaz
    6. A scientific/research topic. Considering one of the following:
      1. Sleep deprivation and the impact it has on athletics and academic performance. – David Clough and Jim Atwood
      2. Psychological impact of abusive or inappropriate language used by coaches. – Jo Potuto and Jennifer Fraser
    7. Emerging issues identified by the NCAA Sports Science Institute and Brian Hainline, NCAA chief medical officer. – Brian Shannon
    8. If the schedule will allow, hold 15-30 minutes for current issues. – Brian Shannon
  2. Enforcement Update: Laura Wurtz, associate director of enforcement provided an update on the recent changes in the enforcement department and the implementation of the new Enforcement model. Jon Duncan, of Spencer, Fane, Britt and Browne LLP, has been named interim vice president of enforcement. He has represented the NCAA in a variety of legal issues. The department will undergo a second review in the coming months. The new enforcement model will be implemented August 1, 2013. Changes to the legislation have already been captured in Legislative Services Database and may be viewed online. The enforcement staff continues to educate the NCAA membership of the changes.

    Kevin Lennon, vice president of academic and membership affairs, provided an update on the Enforcement Working Group. Kevin also discussed the next phase of the Rules Working Group which could generate upwards of 40 legislative proposals. He also noted that an internal review of academic and membership affairs and the NCAA eligibility center is planned.
  3. Jim Isch: Jim Isch, NCAA chief operating officer, presented to the Board. He noted that the NCAA has worked hard to increase the faculty athletics representative's voice within the governance structure. He reported that the review of the Division I governance structure is beginning, and commented that Jean Frankel, a consultant with Ideas for Action, is assisting with that review. Jim encouraged that the Board provide Jean with honest and frank feedback when they meet with her. Jean will provide a final report on her review in August.
  4. Legal Issues Facing the NCAA. Donald Remy, NCAA executive vice president and general counsel, provided an update on several legal issues facing the NCAA, including the likeness case. He noted that the case has evolved into one that is more based in amateurism and the question of compensation for men's basketball and football student-athletes. Donald also explained his expanding role in the NCAA, one that now includes oversight of the governance area. He discussed the review of the governance structure and encouraged the 1A faculty athletics representatives to offer feedback when asked for input on changes to the structure. He also noted that the next phase of the enforcement review will include a broader examination of the NCAA's regulatory culture.
  5. Jean Frankel: The Board met with Ms. Frankel. She is assisting with the review of the Division I governance structure and solicited feedback from the Board. Board members provided an array of comments relating to challenges pertaining to the overlap of the ongoing working group efforts and the responsibilities of the existing governance groups.
  6. Awards and Recognitions at September 2013 Conference. The Board agreed on a resolution to recognize Diann Schiessler at the University of Nebraska who served the Board as Jo's assistant while Jo was the chair.
  7. Review of the 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Academic Excellence Award Process. The Board reviewed the process of collecting the names of nominees for the academic excellence award and generating the certificates. The Board agreed to modify the process to include the representative Board Member in the email to the conference offices soliciting nominations. Additionally, a word document for collecting the nominees will be formatted to allow for an easier merge to create the certificates.
  8. Brian Hainline: Dr. Hainline, NCAA chief medical officer, presented to the Board. He has created a 20-year vision for the role of the NCAA in student-athlete health and welfare, designed to incorporate lifelong mental health and physical development into the studentathlete experience. Brian noted that he will be creating a number of task forces to address various health and welfare issues facing student-athletes. He is also developing a number of educational initiatives and better means of communicating with constituencies on campus.
  9. Updates from the NCAA Division I Academic Cabinet and the NCAA Division I Committee on Academic Performance. John Bruno provided the update on the work of the Academic Cabinet at its February meeting. The cabinet recommended the adoption of noncontroversial legislation to specify that a student-athlete who is certified as a nonqualifier through the initial-eligibility certification process, and who receives full or partial relief through the initial-eligibility waiver process, be exempt from having to satisfy the requirements of NCAA Bylaw 14.3.3.1 to gain a fourth season of competition. The cabinet also engaged in a review and discussion of multiple options that would modify the newly adopted initial-eligibility requirements. The cabinet reaffirmed its support for the 2.300 minimum grade-point average, core-course progression and academic redshirt classification, effective in 2016. The cabinet did not support a modification to the newly adopted sliding scale or a delay to the effective date of the newly adopted initial-eligibility requirements. Finally, the cabinet supported a modification to the calculation of the core-course grade-point average; specifically, to eliminate the use of core courses beyond the 16 core courses used to meet the distribution to calculate the grade-point average.

    David Clough provided the update on the work of the Committee on Academic Performance at its February meeting. The committee also recommended the adoption of the noncontroversial legislation the cabinet supported for nonqualifiers that received full or partial relief through the initial-eligibility waiver process. The committee also engaged in a review and discussion of multiple options that would modify the newly adopted initial-eligibility requirements, including a review of the cabinet's recommendations. The committee will provide the following input to the Board:
    1. Move forward in 2016 with the core-course progression and the minimum 2.300 core-course grade-point average as adopted in October 2011.
    2. In April 2013, propose legislation that would limit the number of core courses used in the calculation of the core-course grade-point average to the best 16 core courses.
    3. Revisit the sliding-scale calculation in favor of a less stringent, but meaningful, version.
    4. Revisit the effective date of the new sliding scale.
    Members of the board suggested that when materials go out for membership comment, they include the differences in the recommendation from the cabinet and the committee. The Board named John Bruno, David Clough, and Jim Atwood (with John as chair) as a shadow group to take the lead on developing a Board response to the forthcoming CAP request for feedback on their proposed modifications.
  10. National Football Foundation Presentation. Matthew Sign, chief operating officer of the National Football Foundation (NFF) provided background on the NFF National Scholar Athlete program. Applications are sent to sports-information directors of every college or university sponsoring football, regardless of division, in August or September. Completed applications are usually due the last week of September. The 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board will distribute this information to all members to assure that as many nominees as possible are put forward.
  11. Reports from Liaisons to Other Groups.
    1. Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA): Martha reported the she attended the WBCA meetings at the 2012 Women's Final Four and continues to develop that relationship, as she sees value for both sides.
    2. National Association for Athletics Compliance (NAAC): Tom Stephens reported that NAAC has been a challenging group with whom to liaise. David offered to provide assistance in working with them in the future.
    3. National Football Foundation: Brian reported that Paul Rogers continues to work with this group and was recently added to their selection committee.
    4. Collegiate and Professional Sports Dietitians Association: Jack Thomas noted that there has not been much activity with this small group.
    5. National Associate of Academic Advisors for Athletics (N4A): Jim Atwood reported that he attended the N4A meetings last summer, but he feels that the relationship needs more nurturing. The board agreed to invite Bart Byrd, current N4A president, to the September meeting.
    6. National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC): Fred Green reported that he has corresponded with the NABC, but he was not able to attend their meetings last year. The board generally does not hear much from this group.
  12. Dan Gavitt: Dan Gavitt, NCAA vice president for men's basketball, presented to the board. He discussed the movement of the iHoops program to USA Basketball. He also discussed the National Basketball Association (NBA) draft-age limit, which has contributed to the "one-and-done" phenomenon in men's basketball. While the NBA may have little motivation for changing the rule, Dan stated that he would share information about the development of a possible academic year in readiness and the impact that would have on men's basketball student-athletes. Dan noted that there are no plans to further expand the men's basketball tournament at this time, though there has been some discussion about changing the season to address missed class time (moving to one semester of competition or playing fewer regular season games).
  13. David Berst. David Berst, NCAA vice president for governance in Division I, covered a variety of issues in his presentation including the institutional control review. David reported that that the initiative is on hold for the moment, while the Rules Working Group phase two and the review of the Division I governance structure are completed. He, Kevin Lennon and Tom Hosty will continue to talk to the 1A athletics directors and NAAC to try to hone in on the concerns about institutional control. The final direction for the review will be established by the NCAA, but they are interested in feedback. Finally, David reported that the review of the DI governance structure may result in a board that includes practitioners as well as presidents.
  14. Shadow Groups. Brian suggested a number of shadow groups to take the lead on developing Board feedback to the Rules Working Group as they enter phase two of their legislative review, as well as other groups. The board established teams to review each bylaw once the specifics are provided.
    1. Bylaw 11 and 12 – Steve Turner, David Szymanski and John Bruno;
    2. Bylaw 13 – Jack Thomas, Jim Atwood and Jean Perry;
    3. Bylaws 14, 17 – Brian Shannon, Martha Putallaz and Fred Green; and
    4. Bylaw 15, 16 – David Clough, Jo Potuto and Dennis Phillips.
    5. Student-Athlete Well-Being Group (especially the $2,000 miscellaneous expense allowance) – Martha Pullataz, Fred Green and David Clough.
    6. Enforcement Working Group - Jo Potuto, Brian Shannon and Jean Perry.
  15. Response to Coalition on Intercollegiate Athletics White Paper. Response to Coalition on Intercollegiate Athletics (COIA) White Paper. The board discussed a white paper produced by the COIA steering committee and submitted to the NCAA for consideration. The document included a governance model that provides faculty governance bodies a formal position in the NCAA governance structure. The board determined that COIA is not clear in its understanding of the role of the 1A faculty athletics representative within the NCAA governance structure and considered COIA's proposal to be unworkable.
  16. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 5:15 p.m., Friday, February 22.

January 24, 2013

Teleconference

Participants:

  • Jim Atwood, University at Buffalo
  • John Bruno, Ohio State University
  • Fred Green, Troy University
  • Dennis Phillips, University of Southern Mississippi
  • Josephine (Jo) Potuto, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  • Martha Putallaz, Duke University
  • Brian Shannon, Texas Tech University
  • Tom Stephens, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick
  • Jack Thomas, New Mexico State University
  • Steve Turner, Mississippi State University
  • Katy Yurk, NCAA, recording secretary

[Note: These minutes contain only actions taken (formal votes or stated "sense of the meeting") in accordance with NCAA policy regarding minutes of all Association entities. While certain items on the NCAA 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors meeting's agenda were acted on at various times throughout the meeting, all final actions within a given topic are combined in these minutes for convenience of reference.]

The meeting called to order at 12:32 p.m. Eastern time by the chair, Brian Shannon.

  1. Update on NCAA Convention. Brian reported on the actions at the NCAA Convention. All proposals were adopted by the NCAA Division I Board of Directors except 13-2 which created a universal start date for recruitment. That item was sent back to the NCAA Division I Rules Working Group for additional review and discussion.

    Brian also reported that it is likely the legislative concept on $2,000 in additional athletics aid will resurface during 2013. Finally, he stated that he understood that future legislation must be measured through three prisms:
    1. Is it national in scope?
    2. Does it affect student-athlete welfare?
    3. Can it be monitored and enforced?

    The legislation proponent will have to demonstrate that the legislation has been reviewed through the three prisms.
  2. Future NCAA Rules Working Group and NCAA Division I Committee on Academic Performance Rules Review. Brian referenced a handout on the next phase of the rules review. Some will be routed through the Rules Working Group, others through the NCAA Division I Legislative Council and some through the NCAA Division I Committee on Academic Performance. He noted that the 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives Board of Directors could continue to offer feedback via the shadow groups. John Bruno noted the absence of the NCAA Division I Academic Cabinet in the review of Bylaw 14 legislation. He offered to bring that up during the Academic Cabinet's February in-person meeting. Jo Potuto also suggested that John investigate where the Academic Cabinet's concerns have gone.
  3. February 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives In-Person Board of Directors Meeting. The Board of Directors reviewed the draft agenda for the February meeting. They also requested that Anne Grieger send out the board members' arrival times so they can coordinate travel from the airport.
  4. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 1:05 p.m.