GRAND JUNCTION, COLO. – In response to recent revelations made by former Colorado Mesa University student-athlete Tyler Dunnington about his experience dealing with homophobic comments throughout his baseball career at many different institutions and organizations, Colorado Mesa University immediately launched a third party investigation in to the matter.  With the investigation complete, the university held a press conference today to discuss the findings and outline steps to reinforce its role as a center of inclusion and diversity.
 
"Unfortunately, we learned that a terrible anti-LGBT comment was likely made during Mr. Dunnington's time as a Maverick and I'm sick about it," said CMU President Tim Foster.  "Our university does not tolerate this type of behavior and we will use this incident as an opportunity to double down on our efforts to promote respect, equality and inclusion on campus and throughout the community."
 
At today's press conference, CMU Assistant Baseball Coach Sean McKinney added the following: "Today I want to sincerely apologize for the anti-gay comment in 2014.  It is not who I am as a person and does not reflect my true character.  I spoke directly with Tyler today to apologize and want to use this as an opportunity to grow as a coach and a person." 
 
President Foster and Coach McKinney were joined at today's press conference by One Colorado Executive Director Dave Montez who released a separate statement (attached).
 
In consultation with community groups like One Colorado, the CMU Gay Straight Alliance and leaders across campus, the university will develop a core working group to develop additional training, awareness, education, and support for students, faculty, and staff on the campus.  The primary objective of the group will be to promote a culture where every individual has worth, is shown respect and feels welcome – regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, ability status, sexual orientation, or transgender status. 
 
"I believe deeply in the goodness of the students, faculty, and staff of this campus," added President Tim Foster. "Together, we will learn from this experience and do our part to continue the university's progress as a campus where everyone is safe and welcome."
 A comprehensive university located in the center of western Colorado, Colorado Mesa University provides exceptional educational opportunities on a state-of-the-art campus. As western Colorado's largest university, Colorado Mesa serves students on its main campus in Grand Junction, its satellite campus in Montrose, its community college, Western Colorado Community College, and via online offerings.