Ex-Liberty University Employee Files Lawsuit Claiming Retaliation: What You Need to Know

LYNCHBURG, Va. — Former Liberty University employee Erika Woolfolk is taking legal action against the school. She claims she was unfairly fired for cooperating with a U.S. Department of Education investigation into how the university deals with sexual assault claims. In her 39-page lawsuit, Woolfolk says that her collaboration with the investigation was a key reason for her termination and that her supervisors had predetermined the outcomes of sexual assault cases, damaging the integrity of the Title IX process, according to WSET.

Woolfolk, a graduate of Liberty, argues that she was paid less than her less-experienced white colleagues, forced to take on more work, and denied promotions. This lawsuit is not the first of its kind this year; another former employee, Peter Brake, filed a similar suit alleging retaliation by the university after reporting mishandled sexual assault cases. Both lawsuits also include Ashley Reich, a former Title IX administrator.

In 2022, the university faced another lawsuit from former Dean John Markley, who claimed he was fired for whistleblowing after reporting legal violations to Liberty’s leadership.

Liberty University responded to Woolfolk’s lawsuit by denying her claims. They argue her termination was for “legitimate business reasons” aimed at improving Title IX services. The university did not elaborate on the details of the lawsuit but strongly disagreed with Woolfolk’s allegations.

Liberty University has a troubled history regarding its handling of sexual assault cases. In 2023, the U.S. Department of Education fined the university $14 million for violations of the Clery Act. This act is designed to ensure transparency around campus crime, including sexual assault. The university also promised to invest $2 million to enhance safety measures on campus as part of a settlement.

Recent surveys show that many students feel unsafe on campuses due to mishandling of sexual assault cases. A report from the Association of American Universities found that about 25% of female students reported experiences of sexual assault during their college years. This highlights the need for institutions to take complaints seriously and ensure a fair investigative process. Experts argue that cities and schools should focus on building trust and providing support for those coming forward.

As discussions around sexual assault and institutional accountability continue, Woolfolk’s case further sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by survivors and whistleblowers in the education system.

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