Michigan State University Interim President John Engler has taken the first step to revoke tenure of William Strampel, former dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine.
The request, submitted to the Office of the Provost today, begins the process to terminate Strampel’s employment as a faculty member. Engler also announced MSU will not cover Strampel’s legal expenses in relation to the Nassar matter.
“William Strampel did not act with the level of professionalism we expect from individuals who hold senior leadership positions, particularly in a position that involves student and patient safety,” Engler said. “Further, allegations have arisen that question whether his personal conduct over a long period of time met MSU’s standards. We are sending an unmistakable message today that we will remove employees who do not treat students, faculty, staff, or anyone else in our community in an appropriate manner.”
“I sincerely hope the courageous survivors of Larry Nassar will see this as an unmistakable indication that things are changing quickly at Michigan State,” Engler said. “I said last week that their efforts would not be in vain. This is just the first step in restoring trust in Michigan State.”
To dismiss a tenured faculty member, a faculty hearing committee must find cause exists to revoke tenure. Engler said he is confident the faculty panel will make such a finding.