Missouri State University President Richard “Biff” Williams is involved in a federal lawsuit connected to his time as president of Utah Tech University. The lawsuit alleges that he arranged vegetables in an inappropriate display on the porch of a colleague recovering from a vasectomy and attributed the gesture to other staff members.
Williams has since addressed the matter, saying that it was a “mistake” and a “lapse in judgement” that he accepts as a “learning moment.”
But according to the plaintiffs, the university conducted a “sham investigation to protect him,” as he resigned shortly after the incident and came to Missouri State. They allege that the incident was part of a “toxic, hostile and a poison well work environment.”
The Missouri State University Board of Governors conducted an emergency meeting on Friday afternoon after the news emerged. According to the Springfield News-Leader, an emergency clause was used to bypass the required 24-hour notice.
The Board responded to several media requests by issuing a statement which read:
“The Board of Governors of Missouri State University is aware of the pending lawsuit and continues to have confidence in President Williams’ ability to lead Missouri State University. We are committed to working alongside him to ensure that the university is a safe and welcoming environment to all students, faculty and staff.”
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