The William & Mary Athletics Department has always claimed to strive for "academic and athletic excellence". While the current economic situation amidst the Covid-19 pandemic is unprecedented, the wanton removal of the gymnastics, swimming, track & field, and volleyball programs juxtaposes several of W&M's core values and conflicts with the values that these athletes, numerous alumni, and the athletics department itself adopted over countless years. The teams William & Mary have decided to cut have provided roughly 60% of the academic honors received by the institution and claimed several conference titles. With this decision, William & Mary appears to desire investing more money in to the highest budget teams at the expense of those who earned them the title of academic and athletic excellence. As is true with all of the other athletes in this position, the athletics program first drew me to William & Mary. The level of camaraderie and drive to achieve a common goal shared among teammates and alumni alike was unlike anything that could be experienced across the NCAA. The drive of these teams has been proven several times over through their recognition as academic all-american athletes and via community events such as the annual NEDA walk which raises awareness for eating disorders nation-wide. Both on an off the field, these teams gave all of their time and effort to improving their future, their community, and the academic institution which they call home.