Department of Athletics & Physical Education
Academic/Athletics Balance
For many students, athletics are a valuable part of their college experience. Furthermore, intercollegiate athletics enrich our Vassar community in many ways. Academics, however, are of primary importance to our community, and the Department of Athletics and Physical Education (the Department) has always recognized this.
In scheduling athletic competitions every effort is made to avoid conflicts with class schedules. But occasional conflicts inevitably arise. When conflicts occur, the policy of the Department is that academic commitments take precedence not only over team practices, but also over athletic events.
The Department faculty and staff understand the priorities of the College and will never penalize a student-athlete for fulfilling their academic responsibilities. Please be assured that all of our coaches support this policy whole-heartedly.
In an effort to avoid misunderstandings and problems, athletes are encouraged to discuss with their instructors early in the semester any conflicts that might occur. The Department hopes that, whenever possible, instructors will work with student-athletes in ways that will allow them to pursue their passion for athletics without sacrificing the quality of their academic work. However, the decision regarding whether to release a student-athlete from an academic responsibility (e.g., attending a class meeting) in order to participate in an athletic event rests solely with the instructor. Recognizing as it does that academics are of primary importance at Vassar, the Department will support whatever decision the instructor makes.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact Kaitlin Leach, Deputy Director of Athletics, Director of Student-Athlete Welfare & Senior Women Administrator, and/or Professor Kelli Duncan, Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR).
