The 2025 Midwest Ethics Symposium brought together scholars, athletes, officials, and students for two dynamic days exploring the theme Ethics and Sports. Held April 9–10 at the Prindle Institute for Ethics, the event opened with thought-provoking presentations on cheating, doping, and “tanking,” then expanded into spirited discussions on robot referees, ethical performance, and judgment in combat sports.

Panels on women in sports and the challenges of refereeing drew insightful perspectives from leaders across athletic levels, while keynote speaker Dr. Richard Lapchick delivered a powerful message on sport’s role in social justice. Day two featured compelling conversations about fairness in transgender inclusion, the aesthetics of extreme sports, and the moral tension between violence and virtue. The symposium concluded with a lively NCAA D-III Week panel linking athletics to academic life.

Many thanks to all who made this event a success—presenters, attendees, and organizers alike. It was an intensive weekend of inquiry about enduring questions that shape our games and our lives.

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