What happened: The Commonwealth University community has been adjusting to the recent $4M verdict in a wrongful termination lawsuit involving CU President Dr. Bashar Hanna. Faculty members at the Lock Haven branch have been particularly vocal on the LHU Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties (APSCUF) Facebook page. A handful of faculty members have expressed their concerns about Hanna continuing in his role as president.

Why it matters: CU faculty, staff and students are still reeling from the verdict and trying to come to terms with its future impact on CU. Faculty members vocalizing their disappointment in the university’s response and their demand for Hanna’s removal shows a side of CU that administrators have been ignoring- the fractures between three campuses that the administration has long papered over. Lock Haven faculty and APSCUF members have shared their thoughts on the LHU APSCUF Facebook page. This small group of users provides a minimal glimpse into the reaction of a campus slightly removed from the ordeal.

David Russell is an APSCUF member and Lock Haven professor of 19 years. He has occasionally responded to posts on the group page in the comment section.

Russell feels no loyalty to Hanna. He shared that before the merger, Lock Haven was under the impression a new CU president would be selected who would equally represent all three campuses.

“President Hanna was imposed upon us. I don’t know how many times he has even stepped foot on this campus.”

He likened the university merger that brought Hanna to power to a “shotgun wedding”—a union forced upon the faculty without their consent.

“No faculty or staff member has any loyalty [to Hanna],” said Russell.

Russell’s concerns extend beyond mere administrative dissatisfaction. He fears for the university’s financial future, especially with its looming $28 million deficit, and questions how an institution found guilty of neglecting safety procedures can credibly promise a secure environment for students.

“This is a black eye for the university,” said Russell.

Erin Kennedy is a professor of 20 years. Her response to the situation was very similar to Russell’s. Kennedy had little knowledge of Hanna’s professional background but wasn’t aware of the lawsuit until the beginning of this past summer. For her, the behavior that led to this liable verdict was inexcusable.

“The behaviors they were found liable for were unacceptable.”

Kennedy, sharing a sentiment similar to Russell’s, expressed a feeling of alienation from Hanna despite being the CU president.

“We didn’t even want this guy and now look what’s happening… We had no hand in this. This wasn’t our choice.”

Both Kennedy and Russell were clear on one point: Dr. Hanna’s continued role as CU president is not the answer.

When asked if Hanna should remain in his position, Russell’s answer was unequivocal.

“The answer is 100% no,” said Russell.

As Commonwealth University continues to navigate this unprecedented verdict, the cracks of the university are impossible to ignore, more so than ever before. Faculty members are demanding accountability for their leaders and transparency. The call for Hanna’s removal grows louder with each university statement released and appeal filed for. This verdict has revealed more than a severe blunder of the university in following institutional procedures. It has revealed a divided institution in desperate need of leadership that can unite three campuses. The question remains: will CU’s administration listen?