Director of communication, Lynette Fager with Huntington University-

“For 125 years, Huntington University has strived to carry out Christ’s mission in higher education. Therefore, we were devastated and heartbroken when University leadership were made aware of the allegations included in a civil lawsuit filed on September 30, 2022, against three now formerly affiliated University employees, as well as against the University, and Board of Trustees. Following this discovery many have voiced concern, and we want you to know that we hear you. These allegations are not only disturbing, but also antithetical to everything we stand for.”

“Following Nicholas Johnson’s termination in 2020, several additional policies, procedures and personnel were added to our operations to provide additional oversight such as an Athletic Ombudsperson Policy, refined travel policies, treatment policies, and facility usage policies, to name a few.”

“The University has now engaged an external review team to provide an independent review of the University’s Title IX and Sexual Misconduct policies and procedures and to provide recommendations regarding changes the University should consider implementing based on legal compliance and/or best practices. Katherine Nash of Lathrop GPM will be leading the review. Nash and her team have extensive experience advising institutions in the areas of Title IX and sexual misconduct. The review will also examine the supportive measures used to protect all students, and to promote a culture of trust, integrity, and safety. University leadership and the board of trustees have pledged their full cooperation.”

“As a university, we remain committed to the well-being of our students, alumni, faculty, and staff. And moreover, we desire to exemplify moral and spiritual integrity as we call upon Christ’s redemptive work in our lives. We grieve for the pain and loss these two former students are expressing. We pray for full healing and restoration in their lives and the lives of everyone impacted. We will work as a University community toward forgiveness and reconciliation in this matter.” 

Lauren Johnson, Assistant Coach Curtis Hines and Nicholas Johnson

(10-16-22) According to Huntington University the three coaches (Lauren Johnson, Assistant Coach Curtis Hines and Nicholas Johnson) in a civil lawsuit are now considered as ‘now formerly affiliated University employees‘.

Since the suit was filed the Forresters cross country teams have not competed. According to the athletic web site Austin Roark has been named the Interim Head Coach of the program.

    Katherine Nash of Lathrop GPM in Minneapolis is doing a complete review of the situation for the university.

    Nash chairs the firm’s Labor, Employment, and Higher Education practice areas. She regularly advises colleges and universities on a wide range of issues unique to higher education institutions, such as Clery, Title IX, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, HEOA, FERPA, student affairs, faculty issues, and child safety prevention and response. Kathryn is well known among higher education attorneys and policymakers for her work advising and leading sexual misconduct and harassment investigations and revising institutional policies.

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