Spelman College Shifts Focus from Athletics to Fitness Program, Prioritizing Student Health and Saving Costs

Spelman College in Atlanta, a historically black women’s school, has made the decision to discontinue its NCAA athletics program and instead focus on a comprehensive fitness program. The move comes as Spelman’s small Division III conference began to shrink, prompting the college to reevaluate its priorities. By dropping NCAA athletics, the school expects to save approximately $1 million annually. President Beverly Tatum believes that reallocating these funds to a program that benefits the entire student body is a more responsible use of resources, especially considering the health challenges faced by African-American women.

Tatum emphasizes that African-American women have high rates of obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and hypertension, making it crucial for the institution to address these health issues. As part of its new approach, Spelman plans to revamp Read Hall, which currently houses its gymnasium and wellness program. The college already requires all students to take two physical education classes, and it will now hire additional staff to work directly with students on long-term health goals.

The wellness coordinator, Chavonne Shorter, engages with students individually, assessing their overall health, designing exercise programs, and setting goals. To attract students who may be less inclined to participate in traditional exercise classes, the college plans to offer alternative activities like dance classes, such as Zumba, which can burn a significant number of calories. Shorter reveals that around 300 students engage in physical activities on campus daily. The new wellness program aims to be more inclusive, catering to the entire Spelman community and their diverse fitness goals.

However, not everyone is pleased with the decision to eliminate sports. Terlynn Olds, the basketball coach, acknowledges that athletics offers valuable lessons in teamwork, leadership, and life skills. Olds, who relocated to coach basketball at Spelman, believes that sports and the wellness program can coexist, expressing disappointment that she will no longer have a team to coach. While some players are upset about the change, President Tatum remains confident that the college’s plan is the right decision and will ultimately address the health needs of the current generation more effectively.