NDSU Recinds New Media Policy

Before North Dakota State University's new media access rule could take effect, the schools president nixed it. It looks like cooler heads have prevailed.

MOO-U, Fargo  — North Dakota State University athletics' controversial rules that would have limited access for media outlets that didn't have a deal with the university will be rescinded, the university said Tuesday Aug. 2.

President Dean Bresciani directed the athletics department to ditch the guidelines it issued Friday, July 29. He wasn't informed in advance of the guidelines, the university said.

"I was profoundly disappointed when I learned the facts about this issue," Bresciani said in a news release. "This is not the way NDSU treats local journalists and our many loyal fans who value the breadth of news coverage NDSU enjoys. As the state's land grant university, our commitment is to access and inclusion in all endeavors."

My first question is, was this new rule even vetted with the University and with the President of NDSU? It doesn't appear so. The NDSU AD Matt Larson also apologized for the now defunct media rule.

“I erred in not bringing these ideas forward for the president’s review, and I regret the damage this has caused to the administration, institution and university community.”