The Intercollegiate Athletics Program of The University of Texas-Pan American supports and complements the educational mission of the institution by attracting student-athletes from within and beyond the primary service region of the university, and providing them with the opportunity to further their education while participating in intercollegiate athletics competition in regional, national and international venues; by providing an environment to promote and enhance the emotional well-being and the social development of student-athletes; by giving members of the university community - students, faculty, staff and alumni-an entertaining and enlivening program of activities to help create a sense of institutional identity, unity and pride; by offering the citizens of the region the opportunity to view a variety of intercollegiate sports by providing athletics expertise and service to the people and public schools of the area and by promoting community support for the university; and by helping to extend the recognition and reputation of the university beyond the bounds of its geographical location. In seeking to fulfill its mission, the athletics program will provide an environment that is committed to fair and equitable treatment of both male and female student-athletes as well as staff members. In addition, the athletics program will promote sensitivity to diversity issues for all student-athletes and staff in accordance with NCAA principles, university policies and any affiliated conferences. The athletics program expects student-athletes, coaches and all others associated with intercollegiate athletics to embrace the principles of sportsmanship and ethical conduct. The University of Texas-Pan American competes as a member of Division I in the National Collegiate Athletic Association.