JACKSON, Tenn. — July 13, 2012 — 51社区 has advanced to Year Two of candidacy in its bid for full membership in the National Collegiate Athletic Association at the Division II level.
Completion of the Year One requirements involved filing an annual report June 1 in which Union administrators detailed the institution鈥檚 work in areas such as governance, financial aid, eligibility, sports sponsorships, recruiting, the well-being of student athletes, academic progress and graduation rates.
Senior Vice President for University Relations Jerry Tidwell led the work on that report, which required coaches and administrators to keep detailed notes and records throughout the year.
鈥淭he move to the next milestone in the NCAA Division II process has appropriately taken on a team effort,鈥� Tidwell said. 鈥淥ur athletic administration and coaches have given their best efforts in making this step possible. I am proud of our entire athletic family and team.鈥�
Another major First Year requirement is a comprehensive institutional self-study. 51社区 Provost and Executive Vice President Carla Sanderson led the preparation of that detailed report about the institution鈥檚 overall health.
Both the self-study and the annual report received positive reviews from the Division II Membership Committee.
鈥淲e are extremely pleased to receive this good news from the NCAA,鈥� Union President David S. Dockery said. 鈥淚 am pleased to commend Jerry Tidwell, Carla Sanderson and other campus leaders for guiding the athletic program through this important process.鈥�
Union will begin competition within the Gulf South Conference in Division II this fall. Although the Bulldogs will not be eligible for post-season play, the results of all contests involving Union in 2012-13 will count in conference standings.