Update on Discrimination Allegations Against U Florida Levin College of Law

Back in February, I posted here about Professor Sherrie L. Russell-Brown’s discrimination lawsuit against the University of Florida Levin College of  Law.  The complaint alleged, among other things, discrimination, harassment, retaliation against Professor Russell-Brown on account of her race and sex.  Shortly after Professor Russell-Brown filed her complaint in the United States District Court, Northern District of Florida, her separate EEOC case was referred to the Department of Justice.  The DOJ decided not to sue, even though the EEOC determined here that the evidence substantiates Professor Russell-Brown’s allegations of retaliation and discrimination based on race.

On May 22, 2009, Professor Russell-Brown amended her complaint to include further claims, including defamation.  The amended complaint, now pending in the United States District Court, District of New Jersey, is here.

The Levin College of Law accepted service on the condition that it would have 60 days to respond.

Earlier this month, Ms. Russell-Brown’s attorneys filed a Rule 24 complaint against the Levin College of Law with the Consultant on Legal Education to the American Bar Association, Hulett H. Askew, concerning the non-compliance of the Levin College of Law with the ABA’s Standards for Approval of Law Schools, including Standards 211, 212 and Appendix 1, Statement on Academic Freedom and Tenure. A copy of that complaint was sent to AALS, too.

In February, I invited Dean Robert Jerry via e-mail (here), to “guest blog” at Feminist Law Professors about diversity initiatives at the University of Florida Levin College of Law.   Dean Jerry replied (here) he would contribute a “guest post” in February.  His office did follow up in February to let me know his response would be delayed a few more weeks.  My invitation stands.

University of Florida Levin College of Law no doubt is focused on its U.S. News rankings drop (#46 to #51) and the lowest bar passage rate – 64.9%, – in the school’s history.  The local student newspaper reports here that Jerry is not concerned that the recent bar results will damage the school’s reputation.

-Bridget Crawford