West Virginia University officials strongly object to the Black Coaches and Administrators (BCA) grade of an F in the affirmative action category in its minority hiring practices report released yesterday (Nov. 12).

By the definition in the report, an F in the affirmative action policy category would indicate that the University did not have any affirmative action policy or procedure at all. This is incorrect and why the University is setting the record straight.

The University clearly has written affirmative action policies and procedures in place by any objective review or measurement. They are documented and posted online at http://www.wvu.edu/~socjust/aaeopolicy.htm . In fact, that information was provided to the appropriate researchers conducting the study at their request earlier this year.

Jennifer McIntosh, executive officer for social justice in the Presidents Office, says:WVU is passionately committed across the University to affirmative action guidelines and procedures, and I have spoken with the head of the BCA to relay my strong objections to this particular grade in the report.

Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Ed Pastilong echoed McIntoshs sentiments, saying:Athletics is committed to providing employment opportunities to minorities and women. We adhere to all affirmative action guidelines and work closely with the Presidents Office for Social Justice on all hirings.

According to Pastilong, WVU s full-time coaching staff includes several minoritiestwo head coaches (mens soccer and womens rowing), three assistant football coaches, two mens assistant basketball coaches, two womens assistant basketball coaches and five assistant coaches in other sportsand 10 women.