PHILADELPHIA - The National Collegiate Athletic Association has again certified the University of Pennsylvania's intercollegiate athletics program.

The certification concludes an 18-month self-study process in which all aspects of the University's 33-sport athletics program were examined.  The process included a review of governance and commitment to rules compliance, academic integrity and student-athlete welfare.

Penn was one of 17 universities to be fully certified in the NCAA's most recent announcement.

Certification means that Penn operates its athletic program in substantial conformity with operating principles adopted by the Division I membership.

NCAA legislation mandating athletics certification was originally adopted in 1993.  The second round of athletics certifications is being completed on a 10-year cycle rather than the five-year cycle used during the initial certification process.  All 326 active Division I members participate in the process.

"This is an invaluable experience for Penn," said Steve Bilsky, Penn athletics director.  "It is certainly rewarding to receive this validation and to have shared this undertaking and self-study with so many constituents of the extended Penn community."

"We are extremely proud to receive this certification from the NCAA," said Penn President Amy Gutmann.  "This confirms the dedication and commitment of the Penn Intercollegiate Athletics Department in providing a superior experience for our outstanding student-athletes."

The internal process at Penn was chaired by Deputy Provost Janice Bellace and included representatives from throughout the University.