Athletics Inclusion and Belonging Statement

At Carnegie Mellon University, the Department of Athletics is grounded in a values-driven mission that informs every aspect of our work. We lead with integrity, ensuring our actions reflect the highest standards. We promote wellness by preparing students for success in all facets of their lives. We champion competitiveness, encouraging student-athletes to strive toward their full potential. We aim to make a positive impact on our community, using our talents to uplift and serve others. We are committed to fostering a culture that provides opportunity and meaningful participation for individuals from varied backgrounds and lived experiences. And we emphasize leadership development, preparing the brightest minds to shape the future with empathy, resilience, and purpose.

These values guide our unwavering commitment to inclusion and belonging. We believe all individuals deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, and we are dedicated to cultivating a community where all students, coaches, and staff feel welcomed, valued, and empowered to thrive.

We recognize that a wide range of identities and experiences strengthens our department and enriches the student-athlete experience. This includes understanding the unique challenges that transgender, intersex and non-binary individuals may face in sport. At CMU, we take pride in supporting all members of our community, and understand the imperative to build safe, affirming, and accessible environments for all.

As a member of the NCAA, we must adhere to all Association bylaws and the updated participation policy for transgender student-athletes (effective February 6, 2025). This policy outlines eligibility requirements for participation in men’s and women’s sports teams based on sex assigned at birth, gender identity, and use of hormone therapy. The policy does not permit competition by individuals assigned male at birth on women’s teams, and it supersedes all previous NCAA policies on mixed-team participation for NCAA athletic programs. In accordance with federal law, Carnegie Mellon will also adhere to these requirements for club and intramural sports. In implementing these updated bylaws, we are steadfast that we do so in a culturally responsive and engaging manner, with care, consistency, and transparency.

Finally, we reaffirm Carnegie Mellon University’s Statement of Assurance:

Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate in admission, employment, or administration of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or related condition, family status, marital status, parental status, religion, ancestry, veteran status, or genetic information. Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate and is required not to discriminate in violation of federal, state, or local laws or executive orders.