Three UB experts on diversity and inclusion in athletics will participate in a forum on June 19 in the Albany Capital Center aimed at preventing sexual and interpersonal violence against sexual and gender minorities.

Sharon E. Nolan-Weiss, director of equity, diversity and inclusion; Kathleen M. Twist, senior associate athletic director for sports administration in the Division of Athletics; and Helen “Nellie” Drew, a faculty expert in the area of sports law in the School of Law, will take part in a panel discussion on diversity and inclusion in athletics.  

Part of SUNY’s 2018 SPECTRUM Conference: Preventing and Responding to Violence Against the LGBTQI Community, their presentation, titled “Diversity and Inclusion in Athletics: Legalities, Policies and Practicalities,” will provide information and advice on legal requirements, policy formulation and implementation, and best practices in the area of athletics.

Topics will include the evolving application of Title IX to sexual violence, sexual harassment and sexual discrimination, as well as engaging the student-athlete population as role models and student leaders.

“As New York State begins implementation of a new requirement that all employers provide training about sexual harassment and discrimination, it is especially important to be cognizant of the rights of and obligations to the LBGTQI community,” says Drew. “We are proud that the University at Buffalo, and especially UB Athletics, the recipient of the NCAA and Minority Opportunities Athletic Association's 2018 Award for Diversity and Inclusion, continue to lead the charge in creating and maintaining a culture of inclusivity and respect.”

The SPECTRUM Conference is the nation’s largest higher education conference devoted to preventing and responding to sexual and interpersonal violence against members of the LGBTQI+ community. This two-day event includes national keynote and concurrent speakers and panelists, networking opportunities, and access to low-cost, sustainable programs and solutions to reduce violence against LGBTQI+ students and community members.