Austin Peay State University (APSU) Theater Professor Darren Michael was reinstated by the university after being fired in September for posting about Charlie Kirk in the wake of his assassination.
Michael’s return is accompanied by a $500,000 settlement payment along with compensation for therapeutic services, resulting from a lawsuit over his termination.
The professor came under fire for reposting an article titled, “Charlie Kirk says gun deaths are ‘unfortunately’ worth it to keep 2nd Amendment.”
According to The Tennessean, “A lawyer for Professor Darren Michael confirmed to The Tennessean that Michael will receive $500,000, as well as reimbursement for therapeutic counseling services, as part of a settlement agreement with the Clarksville university.”
Moreover, Michael’s attorney “confirmed that while the settlement closes the chapter on restoring Michael’s employment, they are ‘exploring future options’ against those who ‘interfered with (Michael’s) First Amendment rights.'”
APSU President Mike Licari said the following in a statement about Michael’s previous firing, finding the decision proper at the time.
“Such actions do not align with Austin Peay’s commitment to mutual respect and human dignity. The university deems these actions unacceptable and has terminated the faculty member,” he said.
However, as of December 30, Licari made a statement backtracking on APSU’s decision concerning Michael, stating the wrong protocols were followed by the university in the professor’s termination.
“I deeply regret and apologize for the impact this has had on Professor Michael and on our campus community,” Licari said. “I am committed to ensuring that due process and fairness are upheld in all future actions.”
“APSU agrees to issue a statement acknowledging regret for not following the tenure termination process in connection with the Dispute,” the university also said in a statement, according to WKRN TV.
