Abuse allegations prompt Rutgers gymnastics investigation

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Rutgers University has engaged the law firm Lowenstein Sandler to investigate allegations of bullying, favoritism, and retaliation against the gymnastics program’s coach, Umme Salim-Beasley. The investigation will be led by Matthew Boxer, a partner at the firm and a former New Jersey state comptroller and federal prosecutor.

The announcement of the investigation came shortly after the unexpected retirement of Scarlet Knights athletic director Pat Hobbs on August 16, who stepped down citing health reasons.

Boxer, who previously investigated allegations of emotional abuse and harsh conditioning within Rutgers' softball program in 2020, will oversee this new inquiry. The allegations against Salim-Beasley were first reported by NJ Advance Media, which spoke with seven former gymnasts and one current team member who described a "toxic" environment under her leadership.

Rutgers President Jonathan Holloway stated, “This investigation will ensure that all concerns about the program are thoroughly reviewed, assess whether appropriate actions were taken, and identify any shortcomings or areas requiring further action.” He also emphasized that the investigation aims to uncover and address any issues related to the team’s culture.

Holloway assured that the findings and recommendations from the investigation will be made public. The law firm will receive a $50,000 retainer and an initial fee of $225,000 for the first month, which will decrease to $195,000 for the second month. Costs will be adjusted if additional time is required.

On August 31, Holloway informed the university's governing boards about the external review, expressing confidence that the university had handled the gymnastics program concerns in accordance with its policies. He emphasized the university’s commitment to creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

“Rutgers Athletics shares this commitment,” Holloway said. “Whenever concerns arise about our support for students, we investigate them in line with our policies, the law, and NCAA standards.”