UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Penn State has approved today (July 11) a new University-wide administrative policy, AD73, "Accessing Athletic and Recreational Facilities." The policy limits Penn State Intercollegiate Athletics facilities' use to Penn State student-athletes and Athletics personnel, and recreational facilities' use to individuals with a valid University identification card, during normal hours of operation.
"The University's new facilities policy is an important part of an overall plan to provide the safest environment possible to our constituents, and also re-emphasizes our commitment to offer athletic and recreational space for the use of our students, faculty, staff and their guests," said Steve Shelow, assistant vice president for University Police and Public Safety. "It's important to note that we will continue to honor prior agreements with outside organizations to use these facilities."
Any exceptions to this policy must be given in writing, and approved by the appropriate facilities office responsible for athletic and recreational facility access. At the University Park campus, David Joyner, acting athletic director, and Mark Bodenschatz, associate athletic director of facilities and operations, will oversee the policy's implementation, including necessary physical changes to limit access and the addition of appropriate staff.
"Penn State Athletics has proactively pursued this important change in University policy," said Joyner. "This is the latest step in our department's efforts to strengthen the safety and security of our facilities for students."
University ID cardholders will be allowed to bring one related guest with them to use recreational facilities only during the time each facility is specifically designated as being open and available for use.
While the policy pertains to sporting and recreational space at all Penn State campuses, it does not apply when facilities are being used for authorized events designated for public attendance.