UNCP asked to assess logo again

By Scott Ammons
Senior Staff Writer

The NCAA has asked UNCP to re-examine its mascot, school logo and use of the word “Braves” as its nickname. The university has until May 1 to submit its response to the NCAA.

Gail Dent, a spokeswoman for the NCAA, said, “Our constitution states it’s the responsibility of each campus to establish and maintain an environment which values cultural diversity and gender equality among student athletes and staff, and to promote an atmosphere of respect for the dignity of every person,” as reported in The Washington Times.

University Web Publisher and Lumbee Tribal Council member Lawrence Locklear said, “In 2002, the Tribal Council passed a resolution supporting the university’s use of the name and logo.” Locklear believes the majority of council members and the community overwhelmingly supports the university, and he doesn’t foresee a problem with passing another pledge of support on the matter.

“It’s the stance of the university to follow the community’s lead,” University and Community Relations spokesperson Scott Bigelow said. “We do ‘dignify’ the Native American logo and nickname.”

Chancellor Allen C. Meadors told the Board of Trustees on Jan. 27 that the community would be upset with a change in the logos.