University of Connecticut Director of Athletics Warde Manuel has been appointed to an Athletic Director Advisory Group to the NCAA leadership. NCAA President Mark Emmert agreed to the formation of this group during a meeting of Division I athletic directors and conference commissioners last April.

The advisory group’s membership was determined by fellow athletic directors. The group will meet periodically with NCAA leadership to provide feedback and perspective on issues that affect NCAA Division I members.

“I am honored to have been selected to this prestigious group of my peers,” said Manuel. “My hope is that this advisory group can work with President Emmert and the NCAA leadership to effectively communicate our thoughts, philosophies, and concerns that we have as Division I athletic directors to positively impact the student-athletes, coaches, and fans of collegiate athletics.”

Members of the group are: Kevin Anderson (Maryland), Mitch Barnhart (Kentucky), Gene Bleymaier (San Jose State), Peg Bradley-Doppes (Denver), Greg Byrne (Arizona), John Currie (Kansas State), Peter Fields (Montana State), Dave Heeke (Central Michigan), Warde Manuel (UConn), Dan Radakovich (Clemson), and Gene Smith (Ohio State).