Read the letter to UConn president

Hartford (WTNH) - Here is the letter from Sen. Handley and Rep. Willis to UConn President Hogan:

Dear President Hogan:
We are writing to express our disappointment in Coach Jim Calhoun's behavior during the recent press conference. Jim Calhoun's emotional outburst does not reflect well on him as an individual or on our flagship academic institution; of which the citizens of this state are enormously proud. Coach Calhoun needs to be reminded that he is a role model for many athletes and students, and that his behavior should reflect this position.
Much of the discussion thus far of this incident has focused on Mr. Calhoun's financial benefits to the university. We feel this misses a critical element-that he stands as an example for the students. We know that Coach Calhoun demands high standards of conduct from his team, and we expect the same from him.

His recent behavior was unacceptable and we request that the university take appropriate disciplinary action to reinforce the high ethical standards we have come to expect from our flagship institution.

We are proud of the achievements of Coach Calhoun and of our athletes, and we recognize that their hard work has brought much recognition to the university. The team as a whole has helped the university attract the best and the brightest students from not only Connecticut, but from across the country. With the rise to prominence of UCONN sports, the University's standing and reputation has improved significantly, and the school has been able to raise much needed funding. However, with increased success and recognition comes increased responsibility. UCONN athletes and coaches are representatives of the University. They are the face of UCONN to the nation and we must demand that they meet the highest standards of conduct for its staff, faculty and students.

The goal of any institution of learning should not only be to produce educated and responsible citizens, but to also encourage an examined value system and a personal code of ethics and respect. Coach Calhoun's actions were not in keeping with the high ethical standards that we expect from a representative of the University of Connecticut.

Sincerely,

Roberta Willis Mary Ann Handley
State Representative State Senator

Cc: Mr. Jeffrey Hathaway
Director of Athletics
University of Connecticut
Division of Athletics
2095 Hillside Road, Unit 1173
Storrs, CT 06269-1173