Author: Sam Buisman

UW Director of Athletics Barry Alvarez says that black lives matter.

In a press release published Wednesday afternoon, the former Badger football coach expressed support for the Black Lives Matter movement and affiliate protests set off by the police killing of George Floyd. Alvarez noted the recent diversity-centered changes made to the UW Athletic Department but said that the department was obligated to make further improvements.

Alvarez drew parallels between his own time as a college student and the current moment in the release.

“I was a college student-athlete in the 1960s,” wrote Alvarez. “Change happened then, but we are still dealing with many of the same issues 50 years later. We have another opportunity now. Let's work together to make sure we don't waste it.”

While Alvarez is the current Athletics Director, he was the head coach of the Badger football team from 1990 to 2005, netting three Rose Bowl wins during his tenure. Such a record makes him one of the most visible faculty members at the University of Wisconsin.

Other high-profile faculty, including Chancellor Rebecca Blank, have also voiced their support for the protestors' demands.