INDIANAPOLIS – Illinois State student-athletes continue to register high graduation rates and perform above their peers nationwide. The Redbirds recorded a fourth-consecutive 90 percent or higher Graduation Success Rate (GSR) according to data reported today by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
The latest data revealed that the Redbirds earned a 90% GSR, which exceeds the national average of 89 percent for all Division I institutions for student-athletes entering from 2012-13 through the 2015-16 academic year.
"We are very proud of the student-athletes, coaches, faculty and staff who have worked hard to ensure that our student-athletes earn degrees as well as achieve at high levels in their chosen sport," Senior Associate Athletics Director Cindy Harris said. "Our Redbirds continue to shine in so many ways, which is quite impressive given the balancing act they must perform daily to handle the rigors of academic achievement, athletic success and the many other activities they are involved with on campus and in our community."
Eleven of 15 Redbird teams recorded a GSR greater than the national average in their respective sport. Nine teams achieved perfect 100 percent GSR rates including: men's golf, women's golf, men's tennis, women's tennis, gymnastics, women's basketball, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Three additional teams achieved a 90 percent or higher score including baseball, women's cross country/track & field, and swimming & diving.
NCAA President Mark Emmert congratulated student-athletes on their continued academic success.
"Proud is an understatement to describe how we feel about the achievements of the talented student-athletes and the members who support them," Emmert said. "They continue to exceed expectations and excel in the classroom to earn their degrees. We celebrate their commitment to academic excellence and admire their dedication to shattering records, both academically and athletically."
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