Providence College Athletics

Statement from Providence College Regarding Athletic Director John Marinatto

Statement from Providence College Regarding Athletic Director John Marinatto

To clarify recent published reports regarding John Marinatto.

July 13, 2001

OFFICE OF COLLEGE RELATIONS, Providence, Rhode Island 02918-0001

Contact: Pat Vieira, Public Affairs Officer / (401) 865-2413 For Immediate Release: July 13, 2001

To clarify recent published reports regarding John Marinatto, assistant vice president for athletics and athletic director at Providence College, the College is releasing the following statement. Providence College officials, including College President Rev. Philip A. Smith, O.P., are puzzled by the allegations that John Marinatto's transition from his current position as athletic director and assistant vice president for athletics, to a new position in athletic fundraising came as a surprise to him. Detailed discussions concerning Marinatto's transition from athletic director to a new position date back to a meeting with Father Smith on November 10, 2000.

On Friday, July 6, 2001, Marinatto was offered the newly-created position of assistant vice president for athletic fundraising, effective January 2002. Contingent upon his acceptance of that position, Marinatto was advised he would continue to serve as athletic director until he assumed his new position in January 2002, in order to ensure a smooth transition with the individual recruited to fill the post of athletic director. Marinatto has not yet advised College officials whether he will accept the new position. Since the offer was made last Friday, Marinatto has retained a lawyer and they are now reviewing both the job offer and, at their request, a severance package. The College has extended the deadline for Marinatto to make his decision, again at his request, until Wednesday, July 18, 2001.

The athletic fundraising position was created to address an important, unmet financial need. It is designed to cultivate individual and corporate donor relationships and new sources of gifts to support the long-term goals of the College's athletic program. The position was offered to Marinatto in recognition of his senior-level experience, talents and contacts.

The College recognizes that Marinatto has sought counsel from friends and colleagues, and that some have publicly expressed their feelings and opinions about this matter. College officials believe they have acted with openness and integrity, and will not directly respond to these comments.