NAIA members,
While the National Office has been sending regular COVID-19 communications, I wanted to take the opportunity as the Chair of the Council of Presidents to share some updates in response to these unprecedented times.
On behalf of the Executive Committee of the Council of Presidents, I’d like to begin by thanking and commending the NAIA National Office for its contingency planning efforts. We are fortunate that our association has been managed in such a fiscally-sound manner that, even though the impact of COVID-19 has been significant, the Executive Committee and I feel confident that the NAIA will be able to weather this storm financially. It’s worth noting and acknowledging that the NAIA leadership team, just this week, voluntarily reduced their salaries to help offset the impacts of COVID-19 on the association’s bottom line. While many other efforts are being made to minimize spending, our NAIA leadership team did not hesitate to “lead from the front” and take swift action for the benefit of the overall association.
It’s, also, important that our members know that the NAIA is examining many different options to lessen the financial burden on our institutions. One such effort – just approved by the Executive Committee – is that the NAIA will not raise dues for 2020-21. While the amount of the planned increase was relatively small, the decision was a goodwill effort to support members in whatever ways possible.
We recognize that one of the most pressing concerns for our members – and, therefore, our association – is the Fall 2020 sports season. The NAIA is taking a thoughtful and measured approach, proceeding with plans to host a fall sports season, while simultaneously supporting the health and wellness of our student-athletes. We are also developing contingency plans so we have maximum flexibility when it comes to meeting the needs of our members. These include the logistics of abbreviating the season, controlling event attendance, implementing extra safety precautions, and accommodating regional differences. The National Office will continue to share updates and possible decision timelines on a regular basis.
Another concern addressed this week was in regard to freshman eligibility in light of the cancellation of spring ACT and SAT tests. The National Eligibility Committee recommended and the Executive Committee approved an exception for 2020-21, which will allow entering freshmen to achieve eligibility solely by having a 2.0 cumulative high school GPA. That said, any competing freshman using this exception will be required to earn a 2.0 collegiate GPA prior to competition in his or her second season.
If you have any questions or concerns, I encourage you to contact the
National Office
. Jim Carr and the team are making a concerted effort to identify how they can best support our members through this time of uncertainty, so feedback is welcome!
Best wishes for good health…and peace and all good things,
