Wilmington, N.C. - UNCW Chancellor Gary L. Miller has initiated a comprehensive review of the university's athletics portfolio. Conducted by the newly formed Intercollegiate Athletics Review Committee (IARC), the review is part of UNCW's effort to bolster the university's existing athletics program and explore new ways to support its student athletes, optimize its fiscal health, and engage with the community, the university announced today.

The committee, which will begin work immediately, will be comprised of faculty, staff and student representatives, as well as members of the UNCW Foundation and Board of Visitors, as appointed by Chancellor Miller.

"UNCW's athletics program simply cannot reach its peak level of competitiveness, operational efficiency, and community engagement without first taking a hard look at our portfolio and determining where our strengths and weaknesses lie," commented Chancellor Miller. "We have come a long way over the past few years, and with a reinvigorated commitment to making our program a vital part not only of the university but of the community, we have many more wins ahead - literally and figuratively. I have total confidence in this committee and am eager to hear their report later this spring."

The announcement comes on the heels of Chancellor Miller's January report to the Board of Trustees, in which he reiterated his commitment to a stronger fundraising infrastructure and more community outreach for the athletics program. Last week, UNCW announced the hiring of the athletics program's first-ever major gifts officer, Adam Keen, who will support the program's development efforts, including prospect identification, major donor relationship cultivation, solicitation and stewardship.

Chancellor Miller has circulated a memo to IARC appointees, outlining the committee's charge. Next steps will include the creation of a website to monitor the committee's progress and a report on recommendations in May.