Rutgers University has hired a law firm to investigate allegations of bullying, favoritism, and revenge by the coach of the gymnastics program, Umme Salim-Beasley. President Jonathan Holloway announced the hiring of Lowenstein Sandler partner Matthew Boxer to lead the investigation, which coincided with the retirement of Scarlet Knights Athletic Director Pat Hobbs due to health issues. This is not the first time Boxer has been called upon to investigate athletic program misconduct, as he previously looked into allegations of emotional abuse and abusive conditioning in the Rutgers softball program in 2020.
Former Rutgers gymnasts have come forward to describe a “toxic” climate under Coach Salim-Beasley, with seven former gymnasts and one current team member detailing their negative experiences. President Holloway stated that the investigation will thoroughly review all concerns raised about the program, assess the university’s responses, and identify areas where additional steps may be necessary to address the culture of the team. The recommendations from the investigation will be made public, and the law firm will be compensated with a $50,000 retainer and a monthly rate starting at $225,000 and dropping to $195,000 for the second month, with the possibility of additional fees if more time is needed.
Holloway informed the university governing boards of his decision to order the external investigation, expressing confidence that Rutgers has adhered to its policies correctly regarding the gymnastics program. He emphasized the importance of providing a safe, healthy, and supportive learning environment for all students, and reassured that any concerns or allegations regarding student support are investigated according to established policies, laws, and NCAA standards. Rutgers Athletics is committed to fostering an environment where students can thrive, and will address any issues that may arise to ensure the well-being of its student-athletes.
The hiring of a law firm to investigate the gymnastics program at Rutgers University comes amidst a nationwide reckoning with misconduct and abuse in collegiate athletics. The allegations of bullying, favoritism, and revenge against Coach Salim-Beasley reflect a broader cultural issue within the world of collegiate sports, where coaches and administrators wield significant power over student-athletes. The external investigation will shed light on the specific complaints raised by former and current gymnasts, and will provide recommendations for addressing any systemic issues that may exist within the program.
The decision to conduct an external investigation demonstrates Rutgers University’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the well-being of its student-athletes. By hiring a reputable law firm to lead the investigation, the university is signaling its commitment to thoroughly examining the allegations and taking appropriate action to address any wrongdoing. The public release of the investigation’s findings and recommendations highlights Rutgers’ dedication to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all students, and sends a message that misconduct and abuse will not be tolerated within its athletic programs.
In conclusion, the allegations of bullying, favoritism, and revenge within the Rutgers gymnastics program have prompted the university to take decisive action in hiring a law firm to investigate the claims. The investigation will assess the validity of the allegations, review the university’s responses, and recommend any necessary steps to address concerns about the program’s culture. By prioritizing the safety, health, and well-being of its student-athletes, Rutgers University is demonstrating its commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment within its athletic programs. The external investigation will provide clarity and guidance on how to move forward in addressing any issues that may exist within the gymnastics program, and will ultimately benefit both current and future student-athletes at the university.
