A former professor at Franklin College has been fired and barred from campus following a situation involving a student.
The alleged incident happened last Wednesday at the off-campus home of Dr. Tom Howald and involved a 19-year-old male student. Franklin Police confirm they are investigating the case but declined to provide details. Howald spoke with us briefly from inside his home.
"I'm sorry. I don't think it would be appropriate for me to give you an interview and I worry that it might be harmful to someone else," said the former Franklin College professor.
Howald taught religion and philosophy at the small liberal arts college for more than 45 years, most recently as an adjunct professor.
"Me and some of the people I know, we were pretty close with him and they were close with him and I knew him. It was just shocking to all of us, pretty upsetting," said Franklin College Sophomore Alex Salee.
"I think everyone here is still reeling and in a way trying to make sense of it," said Franklin College President Jay Moseley.
College officials say Howald himself reported the incident last week. Hours later he was fired and the college took out a protective order on behalf of the student.
"The student was in fear for his safety," explained Moseley, "and safety and security of students is really the first responsibility we have."
Students we spoke with say they are pleased with how swiftly the college handled the situation.
When Howald was asked: "Anything you want to say about this investigation or the reaction of the university?" He responded, "No, thank you. Thank you for giving me the opportunity but no, I think it would be more appropriate for me not to."
At this point no charges have been filed in the case. Under the terms of the protective order, Howald can't have contact with the student and is forbidden from stepping foot on campus for the next three years.
College President Jay Moseley released a statement Wednesday evening confirming the report:
"I dismissed an adjunct faculty member after a student expressed safety concerns following an off campus situation. The College filed and was granted a protective order to prohibit the former employee from being on campus. The safety of our students, faculty, and staff is always our top priority, as well as observing their privacy rights while being transparent in handling concerns brought to our attention. The College has and will continue to assist all appropriate agencies in the review of this matter."
