President's Office

Blue ribbon commission on Intercollegiate Atheletics

August 31, 2005

To the Campus Community:

At the annual Convocation last Thursday, August 25, I spoke about my commitment to Cal State Northridge having a strong, competitive, and well-supported Division I Intercollegiate Athletics program. During my address, I announced my plan to appoint a Blue Ribbon Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics. In follow up to those comments, I am pleased to share with you the Commission’s charge. The membership of the Commission also is available there. The charge states that the Commission’s recommendations shall be submitted to the President before the end of the year.

Background on the purpose of the Commission is included in the charge. As noted in the document, the transition currently underway in Intercollegiate Athletics makes this a perfect opportunity to assess the program and the challenges it faces, and to develop a long-term plan that will ensure the university’s continued strength and competitiveness as a member of the Big West Conference. As I mentioned during the Convocation, the Commission will be chaired by Dr. Mo Qayoumi, Vice President for Administration and Finance. Dr. Cedric Dempsey, president emeritus of the NCAA, will serve as a consultant for the process.

My thanks to Vice President Qayoumi and the members of the Commission for accepting this important assignment.

Jolene Koester
President