Oct. 7, 2008

For Immediate Release

Contact: Staci Schottman, Director of Public Relations and Communications, 816-595-8116

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced today applications to join the NAIA from Fisk University (Tenn.), Philander Smith College (Ark.), Southwestern College (Ariz.) and Walla Walla University (Wash.) were approved by the NAIA Council of Presidents during an annual meeting held on Sunday, September 28, in Kansas City, Mo.

"These institutions share the NAIA's commitment to high standards and to the principle that participation in athletics serves as an integral part of the total education process," said Jim Carr, NAIA President and CEO. "The NAIA looks forward to working with these new members to advance character-driven intercollegiate athletics."

The national office works closely with member conferences to identify prospective members in the region. NAIA conferences are highly involved throughout the evaluation process to ensure a good fit for prospective institutions at both the conference and national levels. The NAIA will continue to work with conferences in identifying prospective schools for NAIA membership.

"The new members have demonstrated a level of commitment to academic and athletic excellence that is defined in the NAIA's strategic plan. The Association focuses on high caliber competition and total student development and I am confident these institutions share a dual commitment and excitement around the student-athlete experience," said John Leavens, NAIA Senior Vice President for Membership Services. "I would like to recognize the leadership at the NAIA, conference and institution level and thank all involved in the application process. The NAIA looks forward to these new and exciting partnerships."  

NAIA member institutions conduct their intercollegiate athletics programs within the regular framework of governance, planning, finance and academic oversight established for the institution as a whole. Existing and new members have made a commitment to standards for the conduct of character-driven intercollegiate athletics, to learn more visit www.naia.org.

About Fisk University
It is the mission of the Department of Athletics Fisk University to espouse and further the goals and objectives of the University. Fisk provides a rich academic experience steeped in the liberal arts tradition. Faculty, staff and students exhibit a passion for learning and personal growth. The University is committed to ethical leadership and engagement in its local and global communities. To accomplish established goals and objectives Fisk employs the best coaches and administrative staff available who are capable of performing professionally in an educational setting in which high standards of integrity, ethical behavior and sportsmanship are required. Under the direction of Dr. William K. Head, athletics director, Fisk University will sponsor men's and women's basketball and be eligible for postseason play beginning in 2009-2010. To learn more visit www.fisk.edu.

About Philander Smith College
Philander Smith College is a private, residential, co-educational, four-year undergraduate liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist church and a founding member of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). The College's emerging mission is to "graduate academically accomplished students who are grounded as advocates for social justice, determined to intentionally change the world for the better." Under the direction of James E. Johnson, athletics director, Philander Smith College will sponsor men's and women's basketball and volleyball and be eligible for postseason play beginning in 2009-2010. To learn more visit www.philander.edu.

About Southwestern College
Southwestern College provides a biblically integrated education that prepares its graduates to serve Christ in ministries and professional occupations. The Eagles athletics department expectations are high in the classroom, on the court or field and in every day life. Southwestern College uses athletics as a tool to teach lessons of respect for teammates, coaches and officials, self-discipline, determination, competitive greatness, fair play, integrity, dealing with adversity, unselfishness, teamwork and responding to situations with a Christ-like attitude. Under the direction of Rick Roth, athletics director, the Eagles will sponsor men's and women's basketball, volleyball, softball and baseball and has future plans to sponsor men's and women's golf, women's soccer, softball and baseball. Southwestern College will be eligible for postseason play beginning in 2009-2010. To learn more visit www.swcaz.edu.

About Walla Walla University
Walla Walla University athletics goals are for each student-athlete to grow athletically, spiritually, academically and socially. Walla Walla approaches athletics as a privilege not a right and an athlete must earn this privilege through dedication, discipline and participation. The athletic programs strive to encourage students to: grow in their Christian experience and develop a willingness to share that relationship with others; be active on campus and in the community; and put academics first. The athletic department staff strives to help each student reach their highest athletic potential as an individual and as a team member and teach the values of sportsmanship, honesty, dependability, teamwork and selflessness. Under the direction of Tim Windemuth, athletics director, Walla Walla will sponsor men's and women's basketball, men's soccer, men's and women's volleyball and softball. Walla Walla will be eligible for postseason play beginning in 2009-2010. To learn more visit www.wallawalla.edu. 
 

NAIA

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is the governing body for athletics programs at its nearly 300 colleges and universities throughout the United States and Canada. The long-held mission of the NAIA is to promote the education and development of well-rounded students and productive citizens through intercollegiate athletics. The Association offers equitable access and opportunities for participation in its 23 national championship events held annually throughout the country.

Today, the NAIA strengthens its commitment to student-athletes and strives to enrich their college experience by supporting academic achievement and character development. NAIA Champions of Character is the association's innovative flagship program designed to instill character values in student-athletes, coaches and youth in the communities it serves.