New AD grew under Peterson

I have to admit – when news broke last week that Fred Glass would be named the next Director of Athletics at IU, I was a bit skeptical.

I had my sights on Oregon State athletics director Bob De Carolis to replace standing director Rick Greenspan, but after talking to former Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson, I was convinced Glass was the right man for the job.

Though I am a staunch conservative, I always admired Peterson’s (a Democrat) dedication to improve Indianapolis, especially when it came to bringing in world-class athletics events and improving facilities for the Pacers and Colts.

So when Peterson sung the praises of Glass, crediting him with many of the athletics-related accomplishments during the Peterson administration, my opinion changed.

Peterson said everything Glass has touched has been a success, citing his negotiation to keep the Colts in Indianapolis and leading the city’s failed bid for the 2011 Super Bowl, which laid the groundwork for a successful 2012 bid as two examples of Glass’ skills.

“I don’t think people understand starting from scratch, starting from zero, what he was able to achieve,” Peterson said.

Glass led the city’s bid, coming up with the idea to raise $25 million for the event funding before the presentation in front of NFL owners.

“That was his idea so we can impress the owners and tell them we were a serious city. Indianapolis would be able to come up with the private funding,” Peterson said. “Ultimately that would be the same formula next year when Indianapolis was successful (in getting the 2012 Super Bowl bid).”

Leading the Super Bowl bid was just one of several projects Glass spearheaded for his career. His jobs as a lawyer and political operative have given Glass extensive experience in fund-raising, negotiations and managing people – crucial aspects of an AD job.

“When he said accidentally it may seem that he has been groomed for this job throughout his career, I would concur with that,” Peterson said. “His past preparation makes him ideally suited for this job position.”

Hoosier fans hope so, as Glass is charged with improving fan morale, as the men’s basketball program is still recovering from NCAA violations committed by former coach Kelvin Sampson and his staff.

Peterson cited Glass’ integrity as one of the main reasons he was the right fit for the job.

“In this day, the complexity we are dealing with in intercollegiate athletics, integrity has to be a priority for any university,” Peterson said. “Picking someone with impeccable integrity and character sends the message to the NCAA and all those who care about Indiana University athletics.”

More importantly, Peterson said, when the NCAA issue is settled, Glass has the right skills to lead IU athletics into the future.

“This issue will pass,” Peterson said. “The questions to ask are who has the abilities, the judgment, the creativity and energy – all those things Fred brings to the table.”