Lexington, Kentucky, October 1, 2025
News Summary
The University of Kentucky is facing scrutiny as the Kentucky Lantern appeals for record access related to the departure of former professor DeShana Collett, who opposed governance changes. Collett’s significant separation agreement of $375,000 has raised transparency concerns. In another incident, law professor Ramsi Woodcock has been removed from teaching due to allegations of creating a hostile environment, which has sparked fears among students. The university is now investigating these claims amid ongoing debates over governance and diversity.
Lexington, Kentucky – A controversy has erupted concerning the University of Kentucky (UK) as the Kentucky Lantern has filed an appeal with the state Office of the Attorney General. This appeal seeks access to records related to the departure of DeShana Collett, a former tenured professor, after UK denied a previous records request concerning a $375,000 separation agreement linked to her exit from the university.
Collett, who had been vocal in her opposition to changes made by the administration regarding UK’s governance structure, had previously requested emails among UK administrators that pertained to her. She was notably influential during her time at the university and presided over a vote of no confidence against President Eli Capilouto in her last Senate meeting, raising concerns that faculty were at risk of losing decision-making power.
Collett expressed fears of retaliation from the university administration following her public stance related to governance changes, particularly regarding concerns related to the control over the Senate’s online voting system. Her attorney noted that she felt increasing discomfort within the campus environment as tensions mounted with the administration.
The Attorney General’s office has already issued a partial ruling in favor of Collett, determining that UK had violated the Open Records Act by failing to provide certain requested documents. However, UK has denied the Lantern’s request for these records, citing attorney-client privilege and preliminary exemptions. A spokesperson from UK emphasized the distinction between the rights of an employee and public access to exempt records.
In a related issue, the university removed law professor Ramsi Woodcock from his teaching duties following allegations of creating a hostile classroom environment. Woodcock has been criticized for an online petition that has been interpreted as antisemitic. The university administration, including President Capilouto, condemned the petition, clarifying that it does not align with the values upheld by the university community.
Amid these developments, Woodcock has denied any intent of violence against Jewish individuals and claims that his petition was misconstrued. Nonetheless, there have been rising concerns among students regarding his statements and their implications, contributing to feelings of fear among Jewish students enrolled in his classes.
In response to both controversies, the university has initiated a thorough investigation into the allegations against Woodcock and has also ceased hosting the contentious petition on its platforms. This comes during a broader trend where other institutions within Kentucky, including Northern Kentucky University, have disbanded their diversity offices as part of a broader political movement scrutinizing diversity initiatives in higher education.
The university is currently navigating a challenging situation not only involving legal and ethical implications concerning records access and governance but also in addressing campus climate issues related to diversity and inclusion.
Background Context
The governance changes at UK, particularly the replacement of the University Senate with a newly established faculty senate, have been met with resistance from some faculty members, including Collett. These changes are part of efforts by the administration to modernize governance but have raised alarms about diminished faculty autonomy. The situation surrounding Woodcock reflects broader societal divides and concerns over academic freedom versus the potential for creating hostile environments for marginalized groups.
FAQs
What is the reason behind DeShana Collett’s separation from the University of Kentucky?
DeShana Collett’s departure involved a significant separation agreement, and concerns were raised over her opposition to university governance changes.
What prompted the Kentucky Lantern’s appeal to the state Attorney General?
The appeal was filed after the university denied a records request concerning the details of Collett’s separation agreement.
What allegations have been raised against Ramsi Woodcock?
Ramsi Woodcock has been accused of creating a hostile classroom environment through an online petition perceived as antisemitic.
What action did the University of Kentucky take regarding the petition linked to Woodcock?
The university has removed the petition from its platforms and initiated an investigation into allegations made against Woodcock.
Key Features Comparison
| Feature | DeShana Collett Case | Ramsi Woodcock Case |
|---|---|---|
| Context | Opposition to governance changes | Allegations of creating a hostile environment |
| University Action | Separation agreement and records request appeal | Removal from teaching and investigation initiated |
| Public Response | Concerns over transparency | Fears among Jewish students |
| Legal Involvement | Appeal to Attorney General | Initial investigations |
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Additional Resources
- Lex18
- WKU Sports: Austin King
- Kentucky Lantern
- Google Search: University of Kentucky controversy
- EKU Sports: Mia Forster
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