Contact: Maridith Geuder
Mississippi State's athletic program is in "substantial conformity" with NCAA operating principles, according to the organization's certification committee.
Following a year-long self-study by the university and evaluation by a peer review team, the NCAA classified the athletic program certified with conditions.
The self-study process involves campus participation by faculty, staff, alumni and students in examining four key areas: governance and commitment to rules compliance, academic integrity, fiscal integrity, and commitment to equity.
Mississippi State's program was found to be in substantial conformity with the NCAA operating principles, although the certification committee said the university's gender and minority equity plans need further development.
Athletics certification was approved for Division I institutions in 1993 as a way of evaluating the strengths of individual athletics programs and identifying areas for improvement. All 308 Division I members will undergo the process within five years.
The university will submit a revised plan to seek full certification as soon as possible but no later than June 15, 1999. The current classification is one of three possible under NCAA guidelines. The others are "certified" and "not certified."
"We are proud of the progress Mississippi State has made in the areas of gender and minority equity, and we will participate with others on campus in expanding and refining our plans for the future," said Director of Athletics Larry Templeton.
Current MSU women's sports include basketball, volleyball, tennis, golf, track and cross-country, soccer, and softball.