UNC Asheville Chancellor Anne Ponder has announced the start of the National Collegiate Athletic Association third-cycle recertification process for the university’s department of athletics.

The campus received its second certification by the NCAA in 2002.

The most recent certification process will evaluate the athletic department’s commitment to three operating principles outlined by the NCAA: 1) governance and commitment to rules, 2) academic integrity, and 3) gender/diversity issues and student-athlete well being.

In preparation for this recertification process, Chancellor Ponder has appointed a steering committee which will lead a comprehensive and transparent self-study evaluating the integration of these principles within the governance and day-to-day operations of UNC Asheville athletic department. Keith Krumpe, Dean of Natural Sciences and Professor of Chemistry, will serve as the steering committee chair.

The steering committee will have representation from the school’s administration, faculty, staff, student, alumni and community supporters.

“We welcome the certification process. This is an excellent opportunity to evaluate our entire program,” stated UNC Asheville Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone. “We look forward to working with this diverse group to improve our athletic program for our student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans.”

Along with the steering committee, Chancellor Ponder will appoint three subcommittees that will work in collaboration with the steering committee.

Work on the project began in September and will continue through April 2011, when UNC Asheville is expected to deliver a report to the NCAA. An on-campus visit by a peer review team will take place (if necessary) in the fall of 2011. The final NCAA recertification decision will be made in the spring of 2012.