The IUP Athletic Department is deeply saddened and disturbed over the recent deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless other members of the African-American community across our country who have lost their lives to racial injustice.

We are also hurt to see the senseless violence and unrest going on in our nation's streets. We stand with the peaceful protestors and community members who seek to be heard, understood, and loved as they work for change, not just in policies, but in perceptions.

Our department echoes the words and stances of our university leadership – specifically President Dr. Michael Driscoll and vice president for Student Affairs Dr. Thomas Segar – when we say that we have no patience for hatred, racism, or discrimination against anyone's race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity. Everyone deserves to live without the fear of being oppressed or violently targeted.

IUP Athletics vows to hold itself to a high moral and ethical standard, to be a part of the solution, not the problem. We will strive to promote a positive campus and community living and learning environment where our student-athletes and coaches feel safe and valued. And we will dedicate to being leaders and role models in all facets of life.

I speak for our student-athletes, coaches, staff, athletic trainers, and everyone associated with the athletic department when I say: We hear you and we stand with you.

Todd Garzarelli
IUP Director of Athletics