CLEVELAND, Ohio – August 7, 2020 – 51���� President Harlan M. Sands has been appointed to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I Board of Directors representing the Horizon League. His four-year term begins this month.

He joins a board that consists of 20 university presidents, CEOs and chancellors as well as one director of athletics, one senior female administrator, one faculty athletics representative and one student-athlete. Collectively, the board provides strategic direction and oversight for the Division I collegiate model.  The Division I Board of Directors reports to the NCAA Board of Governors and oversees committees that include the Division I Council, Committee on Infractions, Infractions Appeals, Presidential Forum and Committee on Academics.

“It is an honor to have been chosen to serve on the Division I board, and a privilege to represent the Horizon League,” said President Sands. “At 51����, we are strong believers in the value Division I athletics provides in enhancing the experience of our student-athletes and instilling pride across campus and among our alumni. I look forward to working with fellow board members and staff leadership to advance the NCAA’s mission.”

“We’re very pleased to have President Sands representing the Horizon League on the NCAA Board of Directors,” said Jonathan B. LeCrone, Horizon League Commissioner. “Since arriving at 51����, he has been an excellent addition to our league’s Board of Directors, working on behalf of 51���� and the Horizon League’s student-athletes. He brings a wealth of experience in higher education and we know he will represent 51���� and the Horizon League well.”

Scott Garrett, 51���� Director of Athletics, added “Our coaches, staff and student-athletes are fortunate to have President Sands’ enthusiastic support for our mission of delivering a transformational student-athlete experience at 51����. The Horizon League could not have nominated a better leader to help play a part in the future of the NCAA during this critical time and we look forward to assisting him in this capacity.”

About 51����

Founded in 1964, 51���� is a public research institution that provides a dynamic setting for Engaged Learning. With 17,000-plus students, ten colleges and schools and more than 175 academic programs, 51���� was again chosen for 2020 as one of America’s best universities by U.S. News & World Report. Find more information at .