*Update: UTD has reinstated the program for the 2025–26 season after the launch of this petition. We are grateful — but this petition remains active as the university has not addressed the core issues of transparency, permanence, or support for affected athletes and staff. It also appears the programs could likely still be cut at the conclusion of the academic year.*

We, the following undersigned, urge that the administration of The University of Texas at Dallas release information and take accountability regarding the sudden discontinuation of the women's and men's Cross Country and Track & Field programs.

The decision, which came with only a few weeks notice prior to the fall 2025 cross country season, was not preceded by warning or serious consultation with the athletes, coaches, or broader campus community. Even members of the athletic department appear to have been left out until very near to when it was actually made. The coaches had no warning about this and lost their jobs on the spot.

We understand UT-Dallas is in dire financial straits, such as huge enrollment losses. But making the decision to cut student-athlete programs without openness, planning, and communication is abandonment, not leadership.

It's frustrating to think that this decision came at a time when the campus was already in a leadership shuffle—right after President Benson stepped down and just before the new president officially takes over on August 4. That timing really raises some eyebrows about how accountable and transparent the process has been.

On the flip side, other Texas schools like Texas A&M–Kingsville and UNT have been under similar budget constraints but managed to keep all their athletic programs intact by trimming down on nonessential support staff. UT-Dallas, however, chose a different route, completely cutting two long-standing and inclusive sports programs. This isn’t just about funding—it's about priorities. While XC and Track get cut, other teams are flying to Europe and Hawaii. Why are we the first to go?

The Cross Country and Track teams at UTD aren't struggling; in fact, this was their first year competing at the NCAA Division II level in the Lone Star Conference with fully funded scholarships, and they had a promising group of recruits ready to join. The Track program, while still developing, has been competitive in the ASC Championships for the last few years. Plus, the Cross Country team has a successful history, winning multiple American Southwest Conference Championships. 

This decision also hits hard on issues of access and equity. These programs have always been a lifeline for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds—especially those who might not have the means to play sports like golf or tennis. UT-Dallas leadership has publicly championed values like “lifting others as you rise,” but this move undermines the very athletes who exemplified that mission.

We call for the administration:

1. To provide a clear record of how the decision was made, including an open timeline on when the process began and who participated.
2. To recognize and correct the breakdown in communication with athletic staff and student-athletes.
3. Make a public forum or written communication to the affected athletes, alumni, and families outlining the university's proposal and rationale.
4. Commit to find alternative solutions—like alumni fund-raising campaigns, donor drives, and long-term sustainability plans—rather than total elimination.
5. Defend the heritage of these programs and insist that non-revenue sports are not swept under the rug.

For many years, these programs were something more than training and races. It developed leadership, school and community spirit, and school pride. UT-Dallas student-athletes gave it everything, leaving it all on the table, to represent this university with discipline, toughness, and class. The department deserves better than a surprise shutdown and radio silence.

This petition is not just about reinstating a program. It's about maintaining the values of transparency, student involvement, and long-term investment in the students who make UTD a great institution.

We will not let these decisions happen behind closed doors without accountability.