By the IV Leader Staff, Sept. 2, 2010
Athletic funding has once again come under the scrutiny of IVCC's board of trustees.
At the Aug. 26 board meeting, board members were asked to approve an annual transfer of funds from the bookstore profits to the athletic fund to cover athletic expenses. This year, the transfer was $185,000.
While the board approved the transfer of funds, some board members questioned athletic funding and led some newspapers to report that IVCC was considering cutting athletics.
IVCC President Jerry Corcoran had a different take on the meeting.
"I do not sense that the board is interested in cutting athletics; however, a concern was raised regarding the costs associated with the program and how to pay for it," Corcoran said. "Given the fact that the economy is still struggling to recover and the state is having a terrible time fulfilling its financial obligations, the concern is certainly understandable."
Corcoran said the board's audit/finance committee will meet in late September or early October in order to address a number of topics and athletic funding will be discussed.
When asked whether there is value in the athletic program, Corcoran responded: "Absolutely! I have great respect for our athletic director and all of our coaches because they are student-centered and they emphasize the point that our athletes are, first and foremost, students.
"Last year several of our teams had great seasons AND the players did well in the classroom as well. The excitement around the campus in support for these teams was outstanding. I think athletics can bring people together for a wonderful intercollegiate experience."
Corcoran sees a future for athletics at IVCC.
"Let me be clear on one point: the issue really is not so much should we have athletics, rather it's more what are the various options we can consider for funding these and other programs?" Corcoran said. "I'm sure we'll have a very respectful discussion and the group will come to a conclusion that takes into account everyone's best interests."