University of Pennsylvania to Revoke Swimming Titles and Address Title IX Violations

The University of Pennsylvania will confiscate its past Division I swimming titles won by Lia Thomas, a transgender athlete, following increased scrutiny and pressure from federal authorities. An investigation by the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights concluded that the university violated Title IX by allowing a transgender woman to compete in women’s sports and access women-only facilities.

As part of the settlement, UPenn will issue formal apologies to female athletes who lost opportunities to transgender competitors and adopt policies based on biological definitions of gender. The university also committed to publicly stating it will no longer permit biological males to participate in female athletic programs or use women-only locker rooms.

Supporters of the decision included former swimmers from UPenn and other institutions, who expressed gratitude for efforts to protect women’s sports. Paula Scanlan, a former UPenn swimmer, stated, “I am grateful to the administration for prioritizing women’s rights and fairness, and I commend my alma mater for choosing the lawful and honorable path.”

Similarly, Riley Gaines, a former University of Kentucky swimmer known for her advocacy, emphasized that today’s actions serve as a warning to educational institutions about respecting women’s civil rights and ensuring fairness in sports.