The University of Southern Indiana plans to join the University of Evansville among Division 1 schools. WNIN’s John Gibson has details:
USI’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously Monday to begin the process of moving its athletics program to the NCAA’s top division.
After the vote, University President Ron Rochon asked for unity:
"The work is yet to be done, and this a time when we need to come together as a unit, as a community, working hard together not only to support this institution but continue to make it thrive."
A recent survey showed 49 percent of USI students and staff opposed the move, while just 39 percent supported it.
Some say USI should focus more on academics. Concerns about costs have also drawn opposition.
The university currently spends about $6.6 million a year on athletics. School officials have said the budget would need to nearly double -- to $12 million – to move to Division 1.
The two largest funding sources would be student fees and private donations.