Statement on the ASAC hearing vote

Statement by former Provost Peter Spear regarding vote of committee hearing academic staff appeal of Paul Barrows:

“I am disappointed that the committee did not feel the university met the tests of just cause in its case. In my view, the letter of reprimand was warranted to make it clear to Dr. Barrows that inappropriate behavior would not be tolerated. In addition, it was my responsibility to make the administrative correction of replacing sick leave that was used inappropriately with remaining vacation hours. It also was important for Dr. Barrows to complete the required training on sexual harassment. We look forward to the rationale laid out in the committee’s report.

I want to thank the committee for its time to hear the case. I especially want to thank the women who came forward to testify under very difficult circumstances.”