[Vision2020] UI joins WAC

bill london london@moscow.com
Sat, 05 Jun 2004 15:44:56 -0700


In all the hoopla about the UI joining the WAC conference for athletic 
competition, I have real lots about the benefits of that union. I have 
not read much about the costs.

The initial sign-up cost was reported as about $600,000 (and most could 
be paid later).  But with the UI cutting the art program to save about 
$200,000 or whatever, that is a signficant amount.

More important is the commitment of private fundraising promised to 
athletics now to meet the WAC facilities requirements.  It seems like 
the UI is going to be leaning hard on its donors to improve facilities, 
increase scholarships, support coaches, etc.  And ultimately, to build a 
new stadium.

If the UI fundraising will now include athletics as the priority, what 
effect will that have on private funding for academic or art programs?  
Will UI donors continue to fund arts or academics and increase their 
athletic gifts?  Or will the donors shift their gifts away from arts and 
academics to athletics?

BL