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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