Following a recent hearing on the cuts made to specific sports programs at the University of Minnesota in the Senate Higher Education Committee, I joined 29 of my colleagues to send a letter to the University’s President, Athletic Director, and Board of Regents over the many concerns we had regarding operational transparency and good faith behavior on the part of the University, its governing body, and leadership staff.

If you’re unfamiliar with the issue, in fall 2020, the Board of Regents voted to cut the men’s gymnastics, men’s tennis, and men’s indoor track and field teams because of finances and Title IX requirements.

Many athletes, students, alumni, and fans were upset because of the decision due to how quickly it took place and how little opportunity anyone had to provide input.

The Board moved to do this because of the onset of COVID, but since the virus has begun to fade, the Board has not made any concrete steps to reinstate the lost programs, and at the same time, the University has moved to request more money to give President Gabel a raise.

The letter we submitted asks the Board of Regents to put a commission together that looks at these three programs and what the athletics department could be. Amongst other questions, it looks at how the University can change its policies to create more opportunities for student-athletes. Ultimately, we hope the University listens more to the students they serve and better represents the will of the Minnesota people.

Today, it has been a week since we submitted a letter to the University and the leadership mentioned above. However, I am still hopeful they will reach out soon so that we can begin a productive conversation.