Gannon University and Ursuline College Unite to Challenge Athletic Conference Decision

Legal Battle for Sports Rights: Gannon University and Ursuline College

In a significant legal move, Gannon University and Ursuline College have jointly filed a lawsuit in federal court aiming to stop the Great Midwest Athletic Conference (GMAC) from revoking Ursuline's eligibility for competition in their desired Division II sports. The suit, which was lodged in the U.S. District Court in Cleveland, argues that GMAC's actions not only breach their own established bylaws but also infringe upon Title IX regulations, which are designed to protect against gender discrimination in educational programs, including athletics.

Ursuline College, a cornerstone institution and charter member of the GMAC, finds itself at a crossroads following its recent acquisition by Gannon University, headquartered in Erie, Pennsylvania. This merger is set to form the largest Catholic higher education network along Lake Erie, bringing with it aspirations for enhanced support of student-athletes.

Walter Iwanenko, President of Gannon University, emphasized the institution's long-standing commitment to athletics. "It is crucial that our Ursuline student-athletes, coaches, and staff know they have our support in this fight for their inclusion in the GMAC," he stated, affirming the university's dedication to resolving the matter.

The roots of this legal action can be traced back to the fall of 2025 when the GMAC board made the controversial decision to expel Ursuline from the conference. Although GMAC temporarily allowed Ursuline to compete during the 2026-27 academic year by granting a waiver, uncertainty looms over its future as the member presidents postponed a crucial vote on Ursuline’s appeal until mid-July. This delay has sparked fears of instability for Ursuline's athletes, coaches, and staff as they look beyond the immediate season.

Cindy McKnight, Athletic Director at Ursuline College, voiced her frustration with the GMAC leadership's treatment. She asserted, "As a founding member of the GMAC, Ursuline and our community deserve better respect and transparency than what we are currently receiving from the conference leadership and its member presidents."

The GMAC defends its decision by claiming a conflict of interest arises from the dual presidency of Gannon and Ursuline University, suggesting that Iwanenko's position on both conference boards compromises the integrity of the GMAC. However, the NCAA has previously reviewed and approved this structure, which is not without precedent in other conference setups that have allowed similar arrangements.

President Iwanenko urged a reconsideration of the GMAC's actions: "This decision sets a troubling precedent for other institutions within the conference that may consider merging. The implications of this policy could jeopardize the athletic futures of many schools if they are penalized for pursuing mergers."

As the legal proceedings unfold, both Gannon University and Ursuline College remain steadfast in their commitment to advocating for the rights of their athletes. With Gannon represented by the law firm Brennan Manna Diamond, the institutions are poised to challenge the GMAC’s authority and ensure that student-athletes receive fair treatment.

About Gannon University

Founded as a Catholic, diocesan university, Gannon University serves an academically diverse body of over 4,400 students. It is dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment through a rich array of programs in various fields, aimed at nurturing students' ethical and social responsibilities.

About Ursuline College

Established in 1871 by the Ursuline Sisters in Cleveland, Ursuline College has developed into a distinguished liberal arts institution that serves around 1,000 students. Notably, it has been instrumental in the creation of the GMAC, fostering a vibrant athletic community that continues to thrive in the competitive landscape of collegiate sports.