Top of the morning

A new survey from the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics ought to clear up any doubt about the power of college presidents compared to the pull of athletic boosters and football and basketball coaches. 

Inside Higher Education sums up it pretty well in its report.

College presidents recognize the need for major changes in big-time college athletics but doubt they can do anything to bring about reforms.

Nathan Tublitz, the head of a group of faculty senate leaders from large schools, isn’t very sympathetic with the presidents’ lament.

I’m surprised that college presidents feel they have limited power to alter their programs. There’s plenty they can do.… Presidents are being wimpy when it comes to this subject, and they’re being somewhat hypocritical.

One thing college presidents and chancellors can do in North Carolina is demand that the state end the $10 windfall to booster clubs. But don’t hold your breath.