NASHVILLE Tenn.
Financially strapped Fisk is dropping its NCAA Division III athletic programs for an intramural and club sports system.
University officials announced Thursday the change will be effective in May, saying it will better match the historically Black university’s mission and resources while helping the school save nearly $500,000.
Spokesman Ken West says the change will allow more students to play sports. Their programs include men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, golf, volleyball, track and field and cross country.
Fisk also announced Thursday it has raised more than $1 million in grant money toward the $4 million needed to get a $2 million matching grant.
Years of financial troubles have led the school to mortgage all its buildings and drain about $7 million from its endowment.
The university currently is in a legal battle over its attempt to raise money by selling artwork donated by artist Georgia O’Keeffe.
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