The following message was shared with the athletics community earlier today from Athletic Director Alex Ricker-Gilbert

To our Dolphin Family: 
 
Over the past few days there has been some very concerning information shared online regarding the personal experiences of some of our student-athletes while at Jacksonville University. The posts and comments have been difficult to read, and they have deeply impacted me and our Dolphin family.
 
Earlier today I informed all Cross Country and Track & Field staff and student-athletes that Ron Grigg is stepping down from his position as head coach and is no longer an employee of Jacksonville University. We believe, and Coach Grigg agrees, that this is the best path forward for our current and future student-athletes and their success. We will name an interim head coach in the coming days.
 
As Athletic Director, my goal is to cultivate a healthy, positive environment where our student-athletes can grow and succeed in all areas of life. I'm writing today to share some updates on how Jacksonville University Athletics is responding.
 
First and foremost, we want our community to understand that the claims made by the student in the fall of 2021 were taken seriously. Within 48 hours of receiving the student's allegations, the University began an investigation, which included meeting with current and former teammates, University employees, administrators, advisors, and coaches. Less than two weeks into the course of our investigation, the student tragically passed away. We then engaged an outside, independent investigator to ensure an unbiased, thorough review.
 
Separately, Jacksonville University Athletics has tasked an outside firm to immediately review the new information and allegations that have been shared in recent days about the experiences of other student athletes. We take these reports very seriously, and it is our responsibility to ensure that this information receives the time and attention that it deserves.
 
In addition, this outside firm will perform an audit of our athletic department's policies, reporting mechanisms, and responsive actions in an effort to strengthen and improve them. This audit will include interviews of current and former students to encourage candid feedback and will assist us with identifying and developing outstanding resources that address areas where we as a University can improve. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for our student athletes and coaches to share their concerns. This audit has already commenced.
 
All of our coaches and staff also will complete additional mandatory training involving mental health and other issues, including, but not limited to, body image, nutrition, bullying, and building a healthy, supportive team culture.
 
These are just the first steps – there will be many more on this road to continuous improvement. JU is deeply committed to the health and well-being of every member of our community, and we continue to strive to make sure our students feel heard and feel safe sharing any concerns.
 
In the meantime, I want to remind all student-athletes and coaches of the resources currently available here on campus.
 
This includes critical, confidential support and resources in the Student Counseling Center and the Student Health Center, Student Success Center for academic advising and support, and the CARE Form to anonymously express concern for students. Additionally, as of August 1, Dr. Jamie Jenkins will join JU as our first mental health counselor entirely focused on supporting Athletics.
 
Most importantly, if you need help, or if you know a student who may be in crisis, please don't ever hesitate to reach out to me, one of your coaches, or to someone in the athletic program or at the University you feel comfortable talking with. Here is the contact information for the resources mentioned above:
 
Student Counseling Center
(904) 256-7180
scc@ju.edu
 
Student Health Center
(904) 256-8080
shc@ju.edu
 
Student Success Center
(904) 256-7090
 
Care Team
studentlife@ju.edu
 
While I, as Athletic Director, carry the sole responsibility for shaping the culture of Jacksonville University Athletics, each individual student-athlete, staff member and coach plays a critical role in building that culture. I hope you'll join me in making a personal commitment to be part of the solution and collectively create a better way forward.
 
Sincerely,
 
Alex Ricker-Gilbert
Athletic Director
Jacksonville University