Former Ohio State Band Director’s Lawsuit Dismissed

The lawsuit was the second against the university to be dismissed by a judge.
Published: August 15, 2016

A lawsuit brought by Ohio State University’s former band director was dismissed by a judge Aug. 12.

Former band director Jon Waters had claimed OSU demonstrated gender discrimination when it fired him in 2014 for the band’s “sexualized culture,” reports dispatch.com.

Waters says he is unsure if he’ll pursue other litigation options after the decision by U.S. District Judge James L. Graham.

“We are gratified that [Judge Graham] has dismissed this final claim against the university,” OSU said in a statement. “Ohio State acted responsibly and appropriately to support our students. We look forward to another fall filled with outstanding performances.”

——Article Continues Below——

Get the latest industry news and research delivered directly to your inbox.

RELATED: W. Kentucky University Settles Hazing Lawsuit for $75K

Waters was fired during a federal Title IX investigation into the band’s culture. Offensive nicknames and parody songs were determined to be inappropriate by a university investigation. Waters claims he was working to eliminate such traditions when he was fired.

“I guess for some injustices, there are seemingly no legal remedies,” Waters says.

It was the second case Waters had brought against the school. Campus Safety previously reported on Waters claims that university officials defamed him in July. That case was also dismissed.

Read Next: Ga. College Fires Coach for Sexual Harassment of Players

Posted in: News

Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series