Lexington, Kentucky, January 10, 2026
U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves has ruled against Professor Ramsi Woodcock’s request to return to teaching, allowing the investigation into his comments about Israel and Palestine to continue. The investigation follows complaints related to his calls for military action against Israel and has raised concerns about creating a hostile environment. Woodcock remains suspended but is still a tenured faculty member with pay and benefits.
Lexington, Kentucky
Judge Upholds Investigation into UK Law Professor Ramsi Woodcock
U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves has denied a request from University of Kentucky law professor Ramsi Woodcock to return to teaching amid an ongoing investigation into his comments about Israel and Palestine.
On January 8, 2026, Judge Reeves ruled that the university’s investigation into Professor Woodcock’s conduct may continue. The judge emphasized that the university must inform the court of the investigation’s results to facilitate future decisions in the case. In his 41-page order, Judge Reeves stated that Woodcock had not demonstrated that the investigation was initiated in bad faith or to harass him. He noted that the university’s actions were prompted by external complaints regarding Woodcock’s statements.
Background of the Case
Professor Woodcock, a tenured faculty member at the University of Kentucky’s J. David Rosenberg College of Law, has been under suspension since July 18, 2025. This suspension followed his circulation of an online petition calling for military action against Israel and his public support for Palestinian rights during the Gaza conflict. The university expressed concerns that his actions could create a hostile environment for Jewish members of the university community and potentially violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
In response to his suspension, Woodcock filed a lawsuit in November 2025, seeking reinstatement to his teaching duties and challenging the university’s use of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism in its disciplinary proceedings. He argues that his comments are protected under the First Amendment and that the university’s actions infringe upon his constitutional rights.
University’s Commitment to a Safe Environment
The University of Kentucky has stated that Woodcock remains a tenured faculty member with full pay and benefits during the suspension. However, he has been barred from teaching and entering the law college building pending the outcome of the investigation. This action reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining a safe and non-hostile educational environment, which is essential for fostering constructive dialogue and civic engagement on campus.
Legal Proceedings and Developments
The legal proceedings are ongoing, with both parties required to provide status reports to the court every 30 days regarding the investigation and any subsequent actions. The case raises significant questions about the balance between academic freedom, freedom of speech, and the university’s responsibility to maintain a non-hostile educational environment. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to observe how both the university and the court navigate these complex issues.
Implications for Academic Freedom and Responsibilities
This case highlights the important debate surrounding academic freedom versus institutional responsibility. There is potential for this case to serve as a benchmark for future discussions around how universities can nurture an environment where a diversity of views is expressed without compromising the safety and dignity of any group. Engaging in thoughtful dialogue is essential for the progress of higher education and ensures that academic institutions serve as platforms for innovation and growth.
Conclusion
The developments in Professor Woodcock’s case underline the intricate balance educational institutions must maintain between safeguarding academic freedom and ensuring a respectful, inclusive atmosphere for all students. As these legal proceedings continue, it is vital for community members to stay informed and engaged in discussions around academic policies and free speech principles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current status of Professor Ramsi Woodcock?
Professor Ramsi Woodcock remains a tenured faculty member at the University of Kentucky but has been suspended from teaching and barred from entering the law college building since July 18, 2025, pending an ongoing investigation into his comments about Israel and Palestine.
What prompted the university’s investigation into Professor Woodcock?
The investigation was initiated following external complaints regarding Professor Woodcock’s circulation of an online petition calling for military action against Israel and his public support for Palestinian rights during the Gaza conflict. The university expressed concerns that his actions could create a hostile environment for Jewish members of the university community and potentially violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
What is the basis of Professor Woodcock’s lawsuit against the university?
Professor Woodcock filed a lawsuit in November 2025, seeking reinstatement to his teaching duties and challenging the university’s use of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism in its disciplinary proceedings. He argues that his comments are protected under the First Amendment and that the university’s actions infringe upon his constitutional rights.
What did Judge Danny Reeves rule in this case?
On January 8, 2026, Judge Danny Reeves denied Professor Woodcock’s request to return to teaching, allowing the university’s investigation to continue. The judge emphasized that the university must inform the court of the investigation’s results to facilitate future decisions in the case. He stated that Woodcock had not demonstrated that the investigation was initiated in bad faith or to harass him, noting that the university’s actions were prompted by external complaints regarding Woodcock’s statements.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Professor Involved | Ramsi Woodcock, tenured law professor at the University of Kentucky’s J. David Rosenberg College of Law |
| University’s Action | Suspension from teaching and barred from entering the law college building since July 18, 2025, pending investigation |
| Investigation Trigger | External complaints regarding Woodcock’s online petition calling for military action against Israel and support for Palestinian rights during the Gaza conflict |
| Legal Action | Woodcock filed a lawsuit in November 2025 seeking reinstatement and challenging the university’s use of the IHRA definition of antisemitism in disciplinary proceedings |
| Judge’s Ruling | On January 8, 2026, Judge Danny Reeves denied Woodcock’s request to return to teaching, allowing the university’s investigation to continue |
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