Economics professor Don Bruce has been named UT’s new faculty athletics representative for the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
In the new role, Bruce will work closely with top university administrators to support a campus environment where academics remain a central focus in college sports.
Bruce, who is also a research professor in the Center for Business and Economic Research, will join faculty from the thirteen other SEC schools who represent their universities’ relationship with the SEC and NCAA in the areas of compliance and academic integrity.
Faculty athletic representatives make recommendations regarding the role of faculty in athletic department policy-making; athletic seasons and scheduling and their impact on academics and student welfare; and standards that will promote academic success of student-athletes.
“I am grateful to Chancellor Jimmy Cheek and Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Dave Hart for their confidence in my ability to step in as the new faculty athletics representative,” Bruce said. “I look forward to working with them, Provost Susan Martin, the athletics department staff, and my faculty colleagues in this new role.”