Athletics director responds
to NCAA mascot decision

Aug. 5, 2005 -- The statement below was issued by Dr. Dean Lee, director of athletics, regarding the recent NCAA decision on the use of certain mascots in NCAA post-season competition:


“At Arkansas State University, we take great pride in being called the Indians. In fact, in 2006, we will be celebrating 75 years of having “Indians” as an athletic nickname. The comments we have received from our fans and alumni are overwhelming in support of our portrayal of the Native American heritage on the fields and the court of play. It is our objective to represent Native Americans in a dignified and stately manner. We believe that our use of the nickname “Indians” and “The Indian Family” as our mascot affords the Native American customs and history the fullest respect and integrity. We have had regular reviews, and will continue to have them, involving a variety of individuals and groups who monitor our representation of Native Americans to ensure Arkansas State’s use of imagery and logos is not hostile or abusive.”

Click here to review the complete NCAA news release detailing the changes.

ASU submitted its self-evaluation report to NCAA in May.  The following release, including a link to the survey report online, was issued at that time:
 

ASU submits self-evaluation report
on mascot to NCAA committee

May 18, 2005 -- Arkansas State University has submitted its report on use of Native American mascots to the National Collegiate Athletic Association.  The NCAA required 30 of its member institutions, which use American Indian representations as a mascot, nickname or logo, to submit the self-evaluation report.

The report, in PDF format, is available by clicking here.

The self-evaluation committee, chaired by Beth Smith, executive director of the ASU Alumni Association, included representatives from the student, faculty, and staff constituent organizations, other members of the university community, the athletic department, athletic booster organizations, ASU Alumni Association, and external community representatives.

In his monthly report to the faculty and staff on May 6, ASU President Les Wyatt said, "The self-evaluations are designed to promote institutional awareness and consideration of issues regarding university associations with Native American interests, sensitivities, and representations."

The NCAA will study the institutional reports during the summer.  NCAA action regarding the issue is not expected before August.  For more details, click on NCAA News Online, March 14, 2005.

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