Ohio University statement on the matter regarding Dr. Yusuf Kalyango
Ohio University takes all allegations of sexual misconduct very seriously and investigates these matters thoroughly. The personal safety and welfare of our students and campus community are our top priorities, and equitable measures are taken to ensure any and all complaints are handled appropriately.
In August 2018, Ohio University’s Office of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance (ECRC) issued a memorandum of findings resulting from an investigation of allegations of sexual misconduct on the part of Dr. Yusuf Kalyango, a professor in the Scripps College of Communication. ECRC found that Dr. Kalyango had violated university policy prohibiting sexual misconduct. Dr. Kalyango was immediately placed on home assignment and prohibited from engaging with students.
In May of 2019, ECRC issued a second memorandum of findings regarding a separate complaint of sexual misconduct on the part of Dr. Kalyango, again finding that he had violated university policy prohibiting sexual misconduct.
Due to the seriousness of the findings of the investigations and pursuant to the process outlined in the faculty handbook, a comprehensive adjudication proceeding for tenure removal and termination was initiated. The adjudication proceeding has concluded on April 9, 2021 and Kalyango’s tenure was revoked, and the President was directed to take immediate steps to terminate Dr. Kalyango’s employment with the University.
The decision to terminate any employee is one the University takes with great care and seriousness. The investigation and adjudication process are designed to ensure thorough consideration before a conclusion is reached. This process led to Dr. Kalyango’s termination, and this action upholds our commitment to providing a safe environment for our University community.
The University reaffirms its commitment to providing a learning environment where students can decide the ways that work for them to report these incidents for investigation to the University; and for individual, confidential care. As the University moves forward, we will continue to challenge our campus community to help us strengthen our commitment to a sexual violence and harassment free campus.
To the survivors in these stories: Ohio University recognizes your courage and the bravery you demonstrated in sharing your experience with sexual misconduct on our campus. We believe you.