Facilities: Wichita State University has embarked on a $19.5 million reconstruction and renovation plan called Roundhouse Renaissance that addresses the primary needs of the Shockers' athletics department. The drive already has received a $6 million gift from Koch Industries, the single-largest gift Wichita State has ever received. The project includes renovations to the existing Levitt Arena and Cessna Stadium and construction of a new student services building -- all of which will be renamed the Henry Levitt Athletic Complex. The initial phase of the project features a reconstructed seating bowl in the arena and a wider concourse area. The student services building will include an academic center and administrative offices. The lower level of the building will house new locker rooms for the men's and women's basketball and volleyball teams. Subsequent phases of the project, which increase the amount sought to $25 million, include renovation of the Cessna Stadium track, a two-court practice gymnasium, expanded weight and athletic training rooms and a performance-enhancement center. "The project will redesign and redefine the future of the Wichita State community, and will complement the city of Wichita's business, cultural and social heart," said Wichita State President Donald Beggs.

Conferences: Hofstra University has accepted an invitation to join the Atlantic 10 Football Conference, effective July 1, 2001. "Hofstra has traditionally been one the finest football programs in the nation, thus enhancing our reputation as the best I-AA conference in the country. They bring tremendous enthusiasm, outstanding facilities, and the largest television market in the country," said Atlantic 10 Commissioner Linda Bruno. The conference currently includes the University of Delaware; James Madison University; the University of Maine, Orono; the University of Massachusetts, Amherst; the University of New Hampshire; Northeastern University; the University of Rhode Island; the University of Richmond; Villanova University; and the College of William and Mary. Hofstra's official debut as a full member of the Atlantic 10 Football Conference is still to be determined. The Pride, as well as each current Atlantic 10 institution, has a schedule in place for the 2001 season. If a solution can be worked out regarding scheduling, Hofstra will begin full Atlantic 10 play next season; if not, the Pride will be considered a member of the conference but will not be eligible for the Atlantic 10 championship until 2002.

--Compiled by Gary T. Brown