Bytor said

The one thing that these studies miss, it that the programs themselves might not make money, but it does bring Alum's back to their Alma Mater (especially if the program finds success, in our case First Bowl Game & first conference Championship) which in turn hopefully opens up their pocket books and these donations are not accounted for - it does help bring donation to the University (athletic might not benefit, but the University as a whole does).

FAU needs all the helps it can get in this department & any success that comes from athletics that help bring Alum's back is a BIG deal.  This is how you build a fan base that is dedicated and that will stick around through thick & thin.  The small things help build a foundation we desperately need and YES academics will eventually benefit, just takes time unfortunately and unless they see immediate results, then it's a waste of time & money.