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September 10, 2008
VALUE OF OHIO BOBCAT ATHLETICS TO UNIVERSITY
It is said that athletics is a "window in which the university is viewed." Their impact is profound and reaches into every facet of the campus and to all constituents. Some of the many benefits may not be obvious, but their effect is significant and helps define excellence at Ohio University.
The athletic department, similar to all campus units, brings value to the mission and vision of the university. Athletics represents only one piece of the university puzzle. The beauty of the entire university picture is only seen when all its pieces work together. The goal of athletics is to help make Ohio's best university even better.
Bobcat athletic events generate millions of dollars of marketing exposure for the university on national, regional and local levels. National telecasts on ESPN, plus newspaper, radio and television reports from around the country bring attention and value to Ohio University.
Moreover, exposure from athletic events complements institutional advertising in promoting the university. All forms of marketing for the university aid in enrollment decisions by students, and in turn, bolster funding stability for all areas of the campus. Many students view a university with a broad base of academic as well as social attributes as integral to their choice to attend.
Athletic program publicity and advertising also support university fundraising. Many donors to the university began their philanthropic involvement through athletics. Following athletic programs is a link for donors to the university, therefore enhancing their interest in financially supporting the institution. Specific areas of support include facility and student scholarship campaigns, annual giving to colleges and endowments.
Athletics also assists in campus life by offering the year-round entertainment of 16 men's and women's sports for students, faculty and staff. These activities contribute to a vital social environment for the university. Bobcat athletics also ignites school spirit and pride for constituents, which can last a lifetime. It is a rallying point for our alumni and friends nationally to further connect with their university.
Although athletics provides many benefits, there is a cost to adequately fund a Division I-A program. Athletics, like other campus units, is not financially self-supporting, but is still an excellent investment. Interestingly, only five percent of Division I athletic programs generate a profit, so we are not unique with our fiscal challenges. However, we are actively participating in our goal of financial stability. Additionally, we receive less institutional support than most of our conference colleagues. To successfully benefit the university, athletic programs need institutional support through student fees or other campus assistance, but it is worth it.
The athletic department is very grateful to the university administration, students, faculty and staff who have assisted in our operation. To achieve true success in life, it all comes down to people and we have the very best at Ohio University. Success takes teamwork. We are appreciative of the team of people who support us.
We invite all students, faculty and staff to attend athletic events whenever possible. Come support nearly 400 students who compete for your university. These are student-athletes who are also excelling in the classroom with a graduation rate of 92 percent for those who complete their eligibility. Remember, students attend athletic events for FREE and there are discounts for all faculty and staff. If any faculty or staff member has never attended an athletic event, they can e-mail me (schaus@ohio.edu) and I will gladly send two free tickets to a home event of their choice so they can join the excitement!
Hopefully, your view of athletics is now broader. It is more than just games. It provides an array of unique benefits that contribute excellence to our institution. Ohio athletics is truly a window to the university and one that is making a difference.
Jim Schaus
Director of Athletics
Ohio University
