Loyola Marymount University is under investigation by the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights over alleged Title IX violations.
According to The Los Angeles Loyolan, the complaint alleges discrimination of female students on the bases of sex within the school's athletics program. The OCR is looking into coaching practices, publicity, recruitment, travel and per diem allowances.
In an emailed statement to the Loyolan from LMU Media and Public Relations, the university shared that they believe the complaint is “without merit,” but the school is cooperating with the OCR.
“We remain committed to an inclusive campus free from discrimination and will continue acting in the best interests of all student-athletes. The University will not otherwise comment at this time,” said the statement.
The complaint was received by OCR on April 10 and an investigation was opened June 4. A redacted version of the letter was published by Save LMU Sports.
Joey Caterinichio, a spokesperson for Save LMU Sports, said the organization is not surprised by the allegations but noted that Save LMU Sports was not behind the complaint.
“We hope this investigation unveils the disparities in support women in athletics at LMU have experienced when compared to their male counterparts under the leadership of athletic director Craig Pintens,” said Caterinichio. “We’re hopeful that this investigation will lead to meaningful and lasting change for an athletic department that has long been out of sync with the University’s values and Jesuit mission when it comes to caring for the whole person.”
