Norwich University Professor Takes Legal Action Against University Over Censorship of Student Newspaper

A Norwich University professor has taken legal action against the school, claiming administrators pressured him to suppress student newspaper articles that portrayed the university negatively. Shane Graber, who advises The Guidon, filed a lawsuit alleging defamation, contract violations, and retaliation related to his work with the paper.

In his complaint submitted to Washington County Superior Court, Graber’s attorney, Kevin Lumpkin, argued that the university interfered with his teaching and publicly accused him of lacking ethical integrity. Lumpkin claims this was an attempt to undermine his authority and influence over The Guidon, which has been a crucial platform for student expression.

This lawsuit adds to a troubling pattern of allegations concerning employment practices at Norwich. Graber’s legal filing provides insight into how university administrators allegedly tried to curb The Guidon’s reporting last year, particularly following significant events such as the abrupt resignation of former President Mark Anarumo in January 2024. According to the complaint, university leadership sought to influence what the newspaper could publish, even instructing Graber directly on which stories to avoid.

For example, administrators urged Graber not to publish Anarumo’s statements during a sensitive time, and later criticized The Guidon for its coverage of a friendlier relationship between staff members and an ongoing Title IX case. Following a report of an alleged sexual assault on campus, Graber faced backlash for the coverage, leading to further attempts by the university to control the narrative.

The situation escalated in fall 2024 when Norwich suspended The Guidon entirely. This decision was met with public scrutiny, and soon after, the administration allowed the newspaper to resume with new oversight. Many believe this move was reactive, driven by external pressures rather than genuine support for student journalism.

Graber alleges that the university retaliated against him personally by canceling his journalism class, reassigning him to an introductory English course, and implying he was involved in a Title IX investigation. The lawsuit claims these actions not only breached his contract but also caused emotional distress, leading to his current medical leave.

The debate around freedom of the press, especially within educational institutions, has gained traction. According to a 2022 Pew Research survey, nearly 70% of young adults believe that media organizations should be able to report without governmental or institutional interference. This sentiment reflects broader societal concerns about transparency and accountability in education.

Graber chose not to comment beyond the public record of his lawsuit. He is seeking compensatory and punitive damages for the alleged wrongs he suffered. As this case progresses, it may serve as a critical touchstone for the rights of student journalists and the obligations of educational institutions to uphold freedom of expression.

For more on the intertwining of education and press freedom, you can explore resources from the American Association of University Professors and their insights into faculty rights and academic freedom.

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Mark Anarumo,Norwich University,Washington County Superior Court