Washington State University's Board of Regents voted 8-1 on Friday to allocate $20 million in university operating funds to the athletics program to address a projected budget shortfall.

The funding transfer is intended to fill a $20 million budget gap in the athletic department caused by decreased media rights revenue. The resolution was approved during a regents meeting on March 6.

University President Betsy Cantwell defended the decision, stating that "a strong Athletics program is one of the main drivers of student recruitment, retention, and institutional pride." The funding will come from the university's general operating budget.

The budget shortfall stems from reduced income from media rights deals, which have traditionally been a significant revenue source for university athletic programs. WSU's athletics department faced the financial gap as media landscape changes affected revenue streams.

The 8-1 vote indicates broad support among the governing board for prioritizing athletic program funding, despite the diversion of resources from the university's general operations. The single dissenting vote suggests some concern about the allocation decision.

The $20 million represents a substantial commitment from the university to maintain its athletic programs amid changing financial conditions in college sports.