Utah Tech University Vice President Resigns Amid Controversy Over Alleged Inappropriate Post-it Notes

Jordon Sharp, the vice president of marketing at Utah Tech University, is leaving his position after nearly 14 years. He’s heading to a marketing firm, MINT, in Salt Lake City. Sharp made the announcement on Facebook and expressed his love for Utah Tech and its students.

His departure comes during a challenging time for the university. A lawsuit was filed last year by three former top officials, alleging a toxic work environment. The suit highlights inappropriate comments and a troubling gift left by the previous president, linking it to ongoing issues at the school.

The controversy stems from a display in the marketing department, featuring over 200 sticky notes with crude phrases. Sharp, who oversaw the department, is mentioned in several of these notes, raising questions about the workplace culture. Recently, a judge decided that these notes should be made public due to their significance in a state-funded institution.

Amidst this turmoil, Sharp reflected positively on his time at Utah Tech, noting advancements during his tenure, including expanding the campus and transitioning athletics to Division I. He also played a part in the school’s rebranding, moving away from its “Dixie” name, which had racially charged connotations.

President Shane Smeed is now looking to merge Sharp’s role with enrollment efforts, aiming to create a leadership team that better aligns with the university’s goals. The search for a new leader will begin soon.

Sharp’s story highlights not just individual career moves but also the complexities of university leadership. As institutions face scrutiny over their workplace environments, it’s crucial to ensure a culture that supports all staff and students. For further insights on creating positive work environments, you can check the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Source link

Utah Tech University, Utah Tech, Utah Tech lawsuit, phallic gag gift, inappropriate Post-Its, Post-It notes, Utah Tech Post-Its, Jordon Sharp, Utah Tech VP, Biff Williams, Richard Biff Williams