But now there is news about schools that are making athletics more diverse. The Laboratory for Diversity in Sport at Texas A&M University recently announced the winners of its inaugural Diversity in Athletics Awards among NCAA Division I institutions.

"There are many negative reports out there related to diversity in sport," says George Cunningham, Assistant Professor of Kinesiology at Texas A&M and Director of the Lab. "However, there are places that do really good things in this area. They have diverse workforces, they provide equitably for all people irrespective of their individual differences, and these practices become an asset. The purpose of these awards is to highlight the good things departments are doing in the area of diversity."

Areas of recognition include strategic plans, African-American graduation rates, Title IX compliance, employee diversity in both gender and race, and overall excellence. For graduation rates and Title IX compliance, NCAA and U.S. Department of Education data were used. For strategy, department diversity, and overall excellence, questionnaires were distributed to schools. A point scale was used to determine overall excellence, taking information from each of the above categories.

Arizona State University and the University of Wisconsin were the only two schools recognized in four areas, including overall excellence. "We were just tickled pink to hear we were being recognized," says Wisconsin Senior Associate Athletic Director Vince Sweeney. "I remember 10 or 12 years ago putting together a strategic plan. Gender equity and diversity has always been one of the four or five initiatives we've wanted to achieve.

"That's not to say we don't have a lot more work to do," he continues. "Diversity is something you have to continually work at, believe in, and make a priority."

For more information about the Laboratory for Diversity in Sport, visit: http://lds.tamu.edu.