Public opinion about Plaintiffs’ actions and Dr. Donadio’s reaction was not unanimous, however. For example, Alex Sloan, an alumnus, voiced the opinion that Dr. Donadio went on a “public smear campaign,” and that the “inflammatory violent propaganda targeting professors [was] wildly inappropriate and should be concerning to all academics[.]” (Id. ¶ 62).
After Holt completed his investigation, he determined that “[t]he preponderance of the evidence supports the conclusion [Plaintiffs] violated Tennessee Tech Policy 600, Code of Conduct.” (Doc. No. 62-14 at 5). That policy, in pertinent part, reads:
1. In carrying out Tennessee Tech’s educational, research, and public service missions, Tennessee Tech relies on the ethical and responsible conduct of all employees. Employees are expected to conduct themselves fairly, honestly, in good faith, and in accordance with the highest ethical and professional standards and to comply with applicable laws, regulations, contractual obligations, and Tennessee Tech policies.
2. Employees are expected to be committed to creating an environment that promotes academic freedom, diversity, fair treatment, and respect for all faculty, staff, students and the general public. *** 4. Employees are expected to maintain the highest levels of integrity and objectivity as they perform their duties. As such, employees are expected to take all reasonable precautions and seek appropriate guidance to ensure their outside interests do not place them in conflict with carrying out their duties and responsibilities to Tennessee Tech[.]
(Doc. No. 62-23 at 2–3).
In an email dated April 16, 2021 to Provost Bruce, Holt attached his report and stated that Claire Stinson, Vice President of Planning and Finance, “concurred in [his] findings and recommendations[.]” (Id. at 1). Holt also noted, however, that Plaintiffs had five days to request reconsideration, otherwise “the Vice President’s decision becomes final.” (Id.). Through counsel,
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Case 2:21-cv-00039 Document 90 Filed 12/01/22 Page 6 of 27 PageID #: 8918
