STATEMENT OF THE OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOLLOWING THE BOARD MEETING CONDUCTED ON DECEMBER 5, 2016
The Oakwood University Board of Trustees is deeply committed to the safety and well-being of each of our students and employees. Oakwood University takes all allegations of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct against our students, faculty, and staff extremely seriously.
While we cannot make public comment due to the confidential nature of such situations, Oakwood University Board of Trustees and the administrative team are fully committed to cooperate with any investigation into these matters. As members of the Board of Trustees, we have full confidence in the administration of Dr. Leslie Pollard as president of the University.
As it relates to the most recent situation regarding the allegations raised against a staff member and relative, Dr. Leslie Pollard recused himself at the inception of the process and played no role in the outcome of the investigation.
The investigation determined that the conduct complained of did not rise to the level of sexual harassment under the law, nevertheless, the Board does have concerns that the alleged conduct of the staff member may have risen to the level of conduct unbecoming of an Oakwood University employee.
The Board has not taken action based on these allegations because of the decision of the staff member to resign from employment at Oakwood University. The board is in full support of the administration accepting this resignation.
Oakwood University Board of Trustees
December 12, 2016