October 17, 2006

To the University Community:

We have now completed our review and actions related to the incident on Saturday night at the Orange Bowl.

On Sunday the Atlantic Coast Conference and the University announced that 13 student-athletes had been suspended for the upcoming football game this weekend.

Yesterday the UM Athletic Department announced that it was taking additional action. Following is the text of that statement:

Coral Gables, Fla. – In addition to the ACC suspensions announced yesterday, the University of Miami Athletic Department is taking the following action:

• With respect to fighting, any future violation will subject student-athletes to seasonal or permanent suspensions.
• The suspension of sophomore safety Anthony Reddick has been extended indefinitely.
• The Athletic Department has re-emphasized to the football coaching staff the University’s commitment to the principles of sportsmanship and their responsibility to communicate this principle to the student-athletes.
• The coaches will be held accountable for any violation of this principle.
• Any further action by a student-athlete that violates these principles will not be tolerated by the University.
• Further, additional disciplinary measures will be taken for all involved players, including community service and other unspecified actions.

“The NCAA and the Atlantic Coast Conference have principles of sportsmanship to which the University of Miami is committed,” said UM director of athletics Paul Dee. “It is important for us to use opportunities such as these to re-emphasize this commitment to sportsmanship and to use it as an opportunity to provide a meaningful learning experience. The University of Miami does not tolerate actions inconsistent with this principle.”

Additionally, on Thursday I will be meeting with Florida International University President Mitch Maidique to discuss whether our football teams will play the game that is currently scheduled for next season.

As always, I appreciate your comments and suggestions.

Sincerely,

Donna E. Shalala
President