Alex Cooper’s Bold Statement: “I’m Coming for All Who Enabled Alleged Harassment by Boston University Soccer Coach

Podcast host Alex Cooper has come forward to share her experience of being sexually harassed by her former soccer coach at Boston University, Nancy Feldman. In her Hulu docuseries, "Call Her Alex," she claims this harassment lasted three years during her time on the team from 2013 to 2015.

Cooper expressed her feelings of betrayal in a recent Instagram post, where she described Feldman as someone she once trusted. She said, “Nancy Feldman was supposed to help me grow, but instead she made my life a living hell.” Cooper explained that Feldman’s actions deeply affected her life, leaving scars that endured long after her college years.

Feldman, who retired in 2022 after nearly three decades at BU, allegedly made inappropriate comments and gestures toward Cooper. She would ask about Cooper’s personal life, including her dating experiences, which added to the discomfort.

Despite reporting the abuse to the athletic director, Drew Marrochello, Cooper felt ignored and dismissed. Her frustration peaked when she learned that similar behavior was still happening on campus. “This is no longer just about me; this is systemic,” she stated, emphasizing the need for change.

In response, Boston University reaffirmed its commitment to addressing sexual harassment on campus. The university stated it has a "zero-tolerance policy" and offers resources for students to report any issues. However, their statement did not directly address Cooper’s allegations, highlighting a gap in accountability that many advocates like Cooper are eager to bridge.

Cooper’s courageous decision to speak out follows a growing trend in society where more individuals, especially women, are sharing their stories of abuse and harassment. According to a 2021 survey by the Pew Research Center, 36% of women reported experiencing inappropriate behavior in the workplace or academic settings. This discomforting statistic points to a larger issue in how institutions handle such claims and protect their students and employees.

Cooper wants to use her platform to help others feel empowered. “When I was 18 and dismissed, I wished someone would have helped me. Now, I want to be that voice for others,” she declared. Her story is not just a call for justice; it’s a rallying cry for anyone who has felt powerless under the weight of abuse.

As conversations around these issues continue to grow, it’s essential to reflect on how far we have come and the work still ahead. Cooper is not just speaking for herself but for countless others who have felt silenced by similar experiences. The hope is that her boldness will inspire systemic change, ensuring safety and justice for all individuals in similar situations.

For more insights on the topic of sexual harassment in educational settings, you can refer to studies from organizations like RAINN or The National Sexual Violence Resource Center.

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