UPDATE MSU and former swimmers reach settlement in Title IX lawsuit

Kevin Knight · Jan 14, 2023

The Title IX lawsuit brought by former Michigan State women's swimmers against MSU for violations of the federal law after the swimming and diving team was disbanded in the wake of COVID-19 budget concerns has reached a settlement. While there are no plans for bringing a return of the program to East Lansing, the agreement will require an independent Gender Equity Director to conduct a "gender equity review" of the athletic department.

More details are available via the State News:

According to a release from the female swimmers' law firm, the settlement agreement will see MSU appoint an independent Gender Equity Director who will conduct a full “gender equity review” of the athletic department. This director will scrutinize the treatment, benefits and athletic financial aid given to male and female athletes. They will work with MSU to create a plan to address any inequalities found in their review and resolve those issues by the 2026-2027 school year.

The firm said the settlement does not outline any plan for reinstatement of the women’s swim and dive team.

“Our settlement today, while so worthy of celebration, was bittersweet,” plaintiff Elise Turk said in a statement. “Even though our team will not be making a return in the near future, it’s gratifying to know that Michigan State University will be evaluated and held accountable for any future mistreatment of their female athletes.”

Deputy spokesperson Dan Olsen said the university is pleased to have reached resolution in the case.
“MSU remains committed to providing equal opportunities for all student-athletes,” Olsen said. “While the university is in compliance with Title IX, these measures will help ensure public trust in our compliance enforcement through an ongoing independent, third-party review.”

Female swimmers, MSU reach settlement, ending Title IX legal battle - The State News

“Our settlement today, while so worthy of celebration, was bittersweet,” plaintiff Elise Turk said in a statement. “Even though our team will not be making a return in the near future, it’s gratifying to know that Michigan State University will be evaluated and held accountable for any future...

statenews.com

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