OSU statement on the end of litigation filed by former College of Pharmacy Dean Grace Kuo
In January 2024, Oregon State elected to dismiss its appeal of a February 2023 jury award of damages to former Dean of the College of Pharmacy Grace Kuo. Dr. Kuo’s lawsuit against the university alleged retaliation for Dr. Kuo’s handling of discrimination complaints within her College.
The university denies these allegations, and the facts outlined in detailed briefs filed with the court on behalf of the university demonstrate that Dr. Kuo’s claims are without merit and that OSU leaders acted in the interests of the College and of the university community as a whole. OSU takes reports of discrimination and misconduct very seriously, and it is against Oregon State policy for anyone associated with OSU to retaliate against those who report suspected wrongdoing in good faith.
OSU’s decision to pay the jury’s award and dismiss its appeal was made reluctantly and after careful consideration of the costs to the university of further extending litigation. We firmly stand behind OSU leaders involved in the case and the university’s policies. OSU is committed to maintaining a working, learning, and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all members of the OSU community are respected.
Read OSU briefs filed with the court: