Letter to the Editor: Athletics Committed to Health and Well-Being of Students

To the Editor:

A recent op-ed raised a number of concerns about the track and cross country teams and asked “the administration to intervene to ensure that all student-athletes are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.” On behalf of Harvard Athletics, I want to state unequivocally that our first priority is the health and well-being of our students. As noted in The Crimson’s previous reporting, the administration launched an extensive investigation earlier this year into concerns raised about this team. That process has now concluded, and it revealed a number of areas that must be addressed. These include concerns regarding nutritional support, training, and team culture. The Athletics Department is currently in the process of implementing the recommendations resulting from the investigation and is committed to making visible and meaningful progress.

Robert L. Scalise is the John D. Nichols ’53 Family Director of Athletics at Harvard University.