Financial Aid Policies

Procedures for Determining a Transfer Student’s Eligibility

NCAA Bylaw, Article 14.5 contains the provisions for determination of the eligibility of a transfer studentathlete.

At the Mississippi University for Women, these regulations are met when the Office of the Registrar verifies with the previous institution(s) attended, that the transfer student is in compliance with Bylaw, Article 14.01.2 (full-time status and satisfactory progress) and Bylaw, Article 14.01.2.1 (good academic standing). The next step is a review of all previous transcripts to determine Grade Point Average (GPA), which must be a minimum of a 2.0. In addition, the Director of Compliance will verify with previous institutions seasons of participation, terms of attendance and remaining eligibility by using a Transfer Verification Form (see attached sample). Once these requirements are met and confirmed, signatures of review and approval are granted by the Office of the Registrar, the Faculty Athletics Representative, the Compliance Director and finally, the Director of Athletics and Campus Recreation.

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III. What is your commitment to gender equity, diversity and inclusion in the athletic program?

Mississippi University for Women Athletics mirrors the NCAA and the University in its belief in and commitment to diversity, inclusion and gender equity among its student-athletes, coaches and administrators. We seek to establish and maintain an inclusive culture that fosters equitable participation for student-athletes and career opportunities for coaches and administrators from diverse backgrounds. Diversity and inclusion improve the learning environment for all student-athletes and give a stronger foundation in our pursuit of excellence.

The Owls Athletic Department created the Gender Equity and the Diversity and Inclusion plans. Currently, we are evaluating, reviewing and assessing these plans. We are confident we have met or are working toward accomplishing the goals outlined in the plans. We look forward to building on this strong foundation. Both plans were extended through 2022 due to the impact of COVID-19 and the transitional period within the athletics department in which a number of full-time staff members left, including, but not limited to the Director of Athletics and Campus Recreation, the Assistant Athletic Director/Head Volleyball Coach, the Head Coaches for Baseball, Men’s Basketball, the Director of Athletic Communications and a number of full time and graduate assistants.

The Athletics Department promotes respect and understanding of diversity issues. We utilize the essential partnerships and resources offered throughout the University. Our Diversity and Inclusion Designee and our Faculty Athletics Representative served on the Strategic Planning Taskforce which selected Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as one of our priorities. Glen Halbert is currently serving on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council which was established in 2020.

The diversity education and programs provided help to create a supportive and inclusive environment. This year’s University’s common read was Just Mercy. The University provided opportunities to gain understanding and knowledge via zoom discussion and presentations, an event on the lawn viewing the movie which also provided an opportunity for thoughtful discussion, deeper understanding and active support. The policies for hiring are the same for all employees at the institution. We are evaluating the budgets, schedules, equipment, so on and so forth to ensure equity in athletics. Budgets and coaches’ salaries are built equally to provide a foundation for an equitable environment. We are consistently reviewing our policies and procedures regarding Title IX and gender equity. The Equity in Athletics Data Analysis and Disclosure Report was completed the Director of Athletics and Campus Recreation/Senior Woman Administrator, the athletic staff, the CFO, the President, and institutional research officials. The report is reviewed by all entities prior to submission. The EADA gives our department a baseline view of the daily and yearly needs for our department. It allows us to analyze the findings and make adjustments based on the findings. We streamline all of our processes for purchasing, meal allocation, travel, and equipment to maintain an equitable environment across all 17 sports. These processes take the guess work out of decisions made on behalf of the student-athlete and department. It is our goal and plan to provide the same resources across the board. 38