Action and Assessment

Fostering diversity of thought, belief and community
Tuesday, January 30, 2018

As many of you know, we suspended a member of the men’s tennis team and his coach after the men’s tennis match on Sunday, Jan. 28.

As Director of Athletics Doug Gillin stated, their behavior was counter to the values of Appalachian's athletics program, and antithetical to the university’s commitment to creating a community that values diversity of thought, belief and community.

I remind us all of our mission to create global leaders who are critical thinkers, effective communicators and who understand the responsibilities of community engagement.

Every day, I see examples of our student-athletes and their coaches embodying academic excellence and discipline, as well as principled and honorable behavior. In support of our university mission, it is important to ensure they are receiving the guidance and mentorship they need to be successful.

Therefore, I have tasked Doug Gillin and Chief Diversity Officer Willie Fleming with engaging a third party to provide an independent assessment of and guidance regarding the diversity and inclusion practices in our athletics programs.

Our entire student body deserves an environment that fosters and supports their academic and personal development. Your university leadership is committed to ensuring this environment at all levels.

/s/ Sheri Everts

Sheri Everts, Chancellor