An investigation found that Roanoke College female swimmers faced discrimination and emotional manipulation during a transgender athlete controversy in 2023. The former team captain, Lily Mullens, recalled a team meeting where a trans male swimmer allegedly shared suicidal thoughts, and the school administration reportedly said nothing. Mullens and teammates were later denied travel opportunities, which they believe was retaliation for speaking out against the school’s handling of the situation.
The controversy began when a transgender male swimmer joined the team, sparking significant tensions. During a team meeting over Zoom, the athlete allegedly disclosed detailed plans of suicide, including specific intentions to jump from the tallest building on campus, Trexler Hall. The administrators present reportedly did not address the situation, leaving the female swimmers confused and distressed. Mullens, a devout religious person, described the experience as emotionally overwhelming, with her teammates also expressing panic and distress.
The school’s handling of the situation further escalated when the female swimmers were denied travel opportunities, which they believe was retaliatory action for their public criticism of the school’s approach. Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares concluded that the college’s policies discriminated against female swimmers based on sex and that they were retaliated against for their protected activity. The findings indicated that the college violated the Virginia Human Rights Act (VHRA) by denying accommodations, advantages, and privileges based on sex.
Roanoke College denied these allegations, emphasizing that their actions were in good faith and followed standard procedures. The school’s statement claimed that the trans athlete never competed on the women’s team and that the faculty acted based on academic merits for selecting May Term courses. However, Mullens and her legal representatives argue that the school’s response was insincere and that the trans athlete was indeed part of the team, experiencing significant emotional distress due to the situation.
The case has sparked broader discussions about the treatment of transgender athletes in collegiate sports and the impact on female athletes’ experiences. The legal implications of the case may have significant financial effects for the school, with potential damages for the affected female swimmers. As the situation unfolds, it continues to generate significant debate and scrutiny over institutional responsibility and the handling of sensitive issues within educational institutions.