Dr. David Bertaina has been appointed as the Interim Faculty Athletics Representative at the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) for the 2026-27 academic year. His role, as outlined by Chancellor Janet L. Gooch, focuses on maintaining the academic integrity and well-being of student-athletes as they juggle their educational and athletic commitments. Bertaina, a history professor involved with UIS Athletics for several years, is set to act as the liaison between faculty and athletics while representing UIS with the NCAA and the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

By the Numbers
  • Bertaina replaces Dr. Marcel Yoder, who served for 21 years.
  • Bertaina has chaired the Intercollegiate Athletics Advisory Committee for three academic years.
Yes, But

The transition from Dr. Yoder to Dr. Bertaina may present challenges as Bertaina steps into a well-established role after Yoder's two decades of experience, making the adjustment period critical for ongoing initiatives.

State of Play
  • Bertaina is focused on promoting academic integrity and student-athlete support at UIS.
  • UIS Athletics is currently working on enhancing collaboration between academic and athletic departments.
What's Next

As Bertaina begins his tenure, he is expected to implement initiatives that strengthen the relationship between the athletics program and the academic community while addressing the evolving needs of student-athletes.

Bottom Line

Bertaina's appointment signifies a continued commitment to uphold the balance between athletics and academics at UIS, with an emphasis on fostering student-athlete success and integrity in collegiate sports.