ASU Committee Recommends Nickname Change

JONESBORO, Ark. (AP) -- A committee reviewing Arkansas State's mascot passed a resolution Monday to recommend the school drop the nickname Indians.<br/><br/>The panel also recommended the school use

Monday, June 18th 2007, 12:44 pm

By: News On 6

JONESBORO, Ark. (AP) -- A committee reviewing Arkansas State's mascot passed a resolution Monday to recommend the school drop the nickname Indians.

The panel also recommended the school use a national marketing firm to help pick a new mascot.

The NCAA in 2005 announced a ban on ethnically or racially "hostile" or "abusive" nicknames, mascots and imagery at championship events. Arkansas State was one of the schools found in violation of the policy.

Last month, the chairman of the mascot review committee said the 33-member panel would likely recommend changing the nickname.

"Right now, it's a no-brainer," committee Chairman Jim Pickens said then.

The school has conducted a lengthy evaluation process. Pickens' committee consists of faculty and staff and Jonesboro civic leaders.