| The purpose of this study was to determine predictors of success for the diffusion of the following innovation: The Coalition on Intercollegiate Athletics (COIA) Framing the Future: Reforming Intercollegiate Athletics white paper (2007b). According to Tucci (2004), "Calls for the reform of collegiate athletic programs, particularly at National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I schools, appear regularly in the media and in academic circles" (p. 1). Maintaining academic integrity, the proper alignment of academic mission statements, and the increasing concern regarding the commercialization of high profile intercollegiate athletics remains a challenge for many intercollegiate athletic programs. Adhering to contemporary athletic reform models has also been a constant challenge for many of today's colleges and universities. Bridging the gap between academics and athletics has been one of the many concerns of the COIA.;Due to the nature of this study, a qualitative case study research design was followed. The researcher investigated the concerns of athletic personnel and faculty senate members in regard to the diffusion of modern athletic reform proposals developed by the COIA. The study has provided evidence that athletic personnel and faculty senate members at Webb University share common concerns in relation to the adoption of the COIA's Framing the Future: Reforming Intercollegiate Athletics 2007b white paper. However, both athletic personnel and faculty senate members at the university were in the early stages of the adoption process of the innovation.;Athletic personnel and faculty senate members also expressed concerns relating to five categories. These five categories consisted of issues related to "support," "budgetary issues," a "common vision," "external influences," and a "commitment to excellence" at the university.;Athletic reform has been a constant in intercollegiate athletics since its inception over a century ago. Adhering to modern athletic reform models requires faculty and staff members on each campus to be responsible for the quality of education and integrity of the curriculum. Institutional leaders must develop a plan of action to successfully adopt the proposals that they think best fit the university. Meaningful collaboration among faculty and staff members can prove beneficial in helping individuals take ownership in the adoption process. |
