A U.S. Department of Education investigation into Montgomery College in Maryland concluded that a professor sexually harassed students by requiring them to remove their shirts in class. The professor also made inappropriate comments about their bodies, creating a hostile environment.
The investigation, conducted by the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), confirmed that the professor instructed female students to strip down to their sports bras during a medical assessment, even though clothing removal was unnecessary. The professor also commented on students' nipples and breast positioning and ordered those who tried to cover up with lab coats to remove them. The college's internal investigation substantiated the claims, leading to the professor's suspension and subsequent termination.
While Montgomery College acted swiftly in addressing the initial complaint, OCR found the college failed to notify all affected students about the investigation's outcome. This oversight prompted a resolution agreement requiring the college to inform all students present in the class about the investigation's conclusion and the steps taken to rectify the hostile environment.
One student affected by the harassment believed it contributed to her failing the class. The college subsequently covered the cost for her to retake the course. The resolution agreement also mandates that Montgomery College share data from a 2022 campus climate survey with OCR and implement any necessary measures based on the findings.
Montgomery College spokesperson Marcus Rosano affirmed the college's support for the OCR's findings and resolutions. He declined to name the professor involved, citing personnel policy. Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando expressed surprise at the delayed revelation of the incident but commended the college's prompt action in removing and terminating the professor.
