The University of Tennessee System has agreed to a $1.9 million settlement with a former professor, concluding a lawsuit where she alleged her constitutional rights were violated. The legal action stemmed from the institution's disciplinary efforts following her social media remarks concerning conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
The University of Tennessee System Board of Trustees approved the substantial $1.9 million settlement for former professor Tamar Shirinian. The dispute arose after Shirinian referred to Kirk as a "disgusting psychopath" in online posts, following Kirk's assassination on September 10 during his "American Comeback Tour" at Utah Valley University.
Shirinian was placed on administrative leave subsequent to her social media activity. In her post, she stated, in part, "The world is better off without him in it." She further commented, "His kids are better off living in a world without a disgusting psychopath like him and his wife, well, she’s a sick f--- for marrying him so I dont [sic] care about her feelings."
She later offered an apology, describing her comments as "insensitive" and "uncharacteristic of me as a person." Despite her apology, Shirinian's employment was terminated on February 11, with no reinstatement planned as part of the settlement.
University's Rationale for Termination
In the termination letter issued to Shirinian in February, University of Tennessee Chancellor Donde Plowman outlined the institution's grave concerns regarding her statements.
Your words celebrated a gruesome murder, which horrifically took place on a college campus similar to our own, and then went on to callously demean the grief and loss felt by the widow and young children of the victim while also mocking any grief felt by others who sympathized with the surviving family.
Legal Resolution and Attorney's Comments
Robb Bigelow, counsel for Shirinian, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the legal proceedings.
My client is pleased that the parties reached a resolution. Litigation is always difficult, and we're grateful to everyone on both sides who worked diligently to bring this matter to a close. We believe the resolution reflects the seriousness of the issues while allowing everyone to move forward. We wish the University nothing but success in the future.