CONWAY, Ark. (AP) - The University of Central Arkansas is studying whether dropping down to Division II would save money that could be used for academic needs.

Faculty Senate President Kevin Browne says a subcommittee will decide whether it's feasible for UCA to return to Division II. UCA moved up to Division I in 2010.

The Log Cabin Democrat reports that the subcommittee's recommendation will be heard by the Faculty Senate then passed along to UCA administrators and the Board of Trustees.

Browne says some faculty members are concerned about privately funded bonuses that some athletic employees received. He says faculty members have only received one pay raise in the past five years.

Athletic Director Brad Teague says being a Division I school is an investment in UCA and a good recruitment tool.

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