"The Athletic Equality Index was created by Athlete Ally, a non-profit organization whose mission is simple, end homophobia and transphobia in sports," explained Kristen Casamento, senior assistant athletic director for academic support. "Our success was founded in our first steps of taking the time to review our policies and establish connections to resources already on campus."

Quinnipiac earned a score of 85 out of 100, which was the highest score out of all of the MAAC schools. The next highest score from the MAAC was Marist with a 55.

See Athletics in action

The index is meant to assess athletic departments' policies and practices around LGBTQ inclusion, said Casamento, who serves as the athletic department's diversity, equity and inclusion committee chair.  

She noted that she worked with the sports information department to develop a dedicated website to showcase campus, conference and departmental policies protecting the LGBTQ+ community.

"Creating this central location will let current students, staff and coaches and those in the future know that Quinnipiac is a safe space for them to learn and compete," Casamento said. "This is an annual score so there will be a consistent push to continue to grow."

Looking toward the future, she said she plans to work further with the Department for Cultural and Global Engagement on safe space training for all student-athletes, staff and coaches, review of the student-athlete handbook, and pride games where students can celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and learn about resources offered at the university.

"There are so many resources on this campus that go unnoticed and should be celebrated and utilized in their entirety," Casamento said. "Taking small steps in change in a timely fashion can make for a larger impact moving forward. The goal is to show LGBTQ+ student-athletes, staff, coaches and fans that they are supported at Quinnipiac."

Learn more about the Athletic Equality Index