Vanderbilt, women's track athletes settle discrimination lawsuit

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - Vanderbilt University announced Tuesday it has settled a lawsuit brought by seven women&#39;s track team members charging that the school discriminated against female athletes by not providing staff and facilities equal to that of men&#39;s sports. <br> <br> As part of the settlement, Vanderbilt officials and the students agreed on a timetable for reconstruction of the track and field facilities, more funding for the program and increasing the coaching staff from 2.5 to three full-time positions. <br> <br> ``We are pleased that this lawsuit has been settled,&#39;&#39; Athletic Director Todd Turner said in a statement. ``The women&#39;s track and field and cross country programs are major contributors to the Vanderbilt athletic program.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> Facility improvements will begin in May or June after the spring athletic program concludes, the university said. <br> <br> ``The new facilities will enhance their program and will improve the quality of student life not only for the student-athletes, but for all students at Vanderbilt,&#39;&#39; Turner said. <br> <br> The students, speaking through their attorney Charles R. Ray, said they hope the settlement represents a renewed commitment to all women&#39;s athletics programs at Vanderbilt. <br> <br> The lawsuit was brought by former students Shelly Dove and Kelly Howisey, and current students Tara Gregory, Colleen Byrne, Cyndy Merse, Lauren Price and Kylene Kownurko.