The Division I Committee on Athletics Certification has announced decisions concerning the certification status of eight Division I member institutions that have undergone the Association's second cycle of athletics certification.

Ball State University, Bradley University, Fordham University, Georgetown University, Gonzaga University, Marist College, Miami University (Ohio) and Tulane University have been certified without conditions.

The purpose of athletics certification is to promote integrity in the institution's athletics program and to assist institutions in improving their athletics departments. Legislation mandating athletics certification was adopted in 1993.

The certification process, which involves a self-study process led by a school's chief executive officer, includes a review of these primary components: governance and commitment to rules compliance; academic integrity; fiscal integrity; and equity, welfare and sportsmanship.

A designation of certified means that an institution operates its athletics program in substantial conformity with operating principles adopted by the Division I membership.

The second round of athletics certifications is being completed on a 10-year cycle rather than the five-year cycle used during the initial certification process.

All 325 Division I members that are active division members participate in the certification process.