Here's what he said about athletics in his questionnaire responses for the search committee:
Recognize and appreciate the importance of the visibility and success of K-State’s
athletic programs to students, faculty, staff and alumni and to the general well-being
of the University;
A highly successful, nationally competitive athletics program provides significant
enhancement to the overall image of a university. Indeed, many people living outside of
Kansas are familiar with Kansas State University because of the “PowerCat” logo
popularized by the K-State football team. Alumni and other constituent groups demand
excellence in athletics, and part of the challenge for the next President is to elevate the
expectation level of K-State alumni that the academic programs should also have the
same aspirations as those in athletics.
As a Virginia Tech alumnus, I have seen how the success and visibility of athletic
programs have expanded the national reputation of the institution through increased
student enrollment and additional external interest in academic related activities.
However, it will be critical to provide the leadership and financial resources necessary to
ensure that K-State athletic teams (both revenue and Olympic sports) can compete on a
national basis in all varsity sports. The national success of our athletic teams can
significantly enhance the name recognition of Kansas State University, and it will be
critical to ensure our student-athletes and coaches have appropriate facilities and
resources to compete for Big XII and national championships.
