February 17, 2004

We are shocked and deeply disturbed about an allegation of sexual assault that recently came to light during a Sports Illustrated interview. The allegation concerns a former student football player Katherine Hnida. Ms. Hnida reports that she was sexually harassed by teammates and sexually assaulted by a teammate while she was a member of the football team in 1999. Ms. Hnida's allegations were reported in a Sports Illustrated column, which was posted on the magazine's Web site today.

We strongly encourage Ms. Hnida to contact police officials to investigate her sexual assault allegation which warrants criminal investigation.

Continuing allegations of sexual harassment, sexual assault and alcohol abuse leveled against the athletics department cause us grave concern. These allegations are hurting the entire university. It is important for us to get a very clear picture of what is going on in the football program and the athletics department.

We are vigorously investigating all of these allegations. We are determined to learn everything we can about these serious issues.