Athletics

Big Ten agrees to reinstate Penn State’s share of bowl revenue

After today's (June 7) decision by the Big Ten Council of Presidents and Chancellors, Penn State will receive its full share of the 2014-15 Big Ten football bowl revenue, providing the Nittany Lions with approximately $4.5 million in unanticipated funds. Credit: Curtis Chan / Penn State. Creative Commons

During a review of bowl games and revenues, the Big Ten Council of Presidents and Chancellors decided today (June 7) to provide a full share of the 2014-15 Big Ten football bowl revenues to Penn State, providing the Nittany Lions with approximately $4.5 million in unanticipated funds. Penn State defeated Boston College in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl in December.

"I am obviously very pleased to report that the council agreed to provide us with our full share of the bowl revenue," said Penn State President Eric Barron, who attended the meeting in Chicago. "This money is used to support student-athletes and our programs, and some things have been delayed due to the ban. Obviously, it is much needed and welcome. I thank my fellow presidents."

Penn State was under a four-year ban on sharing revenues. In February, the council voted to end the ban early and Penn State was slated to play one more season without receiving a share of the conference’s bowl revenue.

However, today's vote ends the revenue-sharing ban altogether. The University is now eligible for a full share of bowl revenue, which is divided evenly among the conference's members.

During the revenue ban from 2012-2014, Penn State's bowl money was split among the conference's other schools where it was used to help local child and sexual abuse organizations.

Last Updated June 8, 2015