Ahead of the fall semester, Truett McConnell University authorities are taking steps to strengthen student safety and support services while an independent investigation into recent claims of sexual abuse against a former administrator continues. The full-time appointment of the Director of Title IX and Student Advocacy is a crucial step in that endeavor.
“This position gives students the opportunity to report any concerns in a confidential setting,” TMU Acting President John Yarbrough said in a statement on Friday.Following the placement of Dr. Emir Caner on administrative leave, the TMU Board of Trustees named Dr. John Yarbrough as the institution’s acting president. Truett McConnell University provided the image.
Furthermore, according to Yarbrough, the university has offered support to any faculty or staff members who are struggling to deal with the fallout from these immoral actions.
Unrighteous acts
The Title IX extension coincides with an external inquiry into abuse claims against Brad Reynolds, the former Vice President of Academic Services, being overseen by Truett McConnell’s Board of Trustees. Richard Hyde of the law firm Balch and Bingham LLP, the independent investigator that the Board of Trustees hired, will deliver his findings to the Board immediately.
Yarbrough emphasized that the alleged abusers are no longer connected to Truett McConnell University and that any potential civil or criminal action will be handled by the proper outside legal authorities. Truett McConnell University is not defined by the immoral actions of a select minority.
Yarbrough stated that after the facts are known and whatever required steps are done, the school will come out stronger and more committed to its goal.
Dr. Emir Caner, the president of TMU, has been charged with not acting upon information that was purportedly provided to him about the alleged abuse. He had been friends with Reynolds since their college days.
While the inquiry is ongoing, Caner is still on administrative leave.
