Dear Antioch Faculty and Staff,
We have pledged to keep you informed with clear and candid updates about Antioch’s dispute with the Coalition for the Common Good. Today, we have a complicated but important legal update.
An Ohio court this afternoon denied the preliminary injunction sought by the Antioch University Advisory Board of Governors to protect Antioch from interference and overreach. The Court determined that the Antioch University Board of Governors is not the right party to bring this suit. Notably, it did not conclude whether the lawsuit itself has merit. While this is a procedural setback, Antioch is well prepared and will continue to fight to preserve our contractually assured rights from when we created the CCG.
Antioch maintains that CCG must comply with the governing documents, namely its bylawsand the Affiliation Agreement, before it can dissolve the Antioch University Board of Governors, assume control of Antioch’s bank accounts, interfere with Antioch’s relationship with the Higher Learning Commission, or terminate Antioch’s President. Antioch contends that those procedures have not been followed. The dispute is not over.
We will hold a Community Update meeting on Zoom at 5pm ET / 2pm PT tomorrow to discuss the decision, share further updates, and discuss the way forward. An invitation will come shortly.
Our goal remains to keep the University running smoothly and without interruption.
Antiochians are resolute in protecting the University’s mission. Our commitment to our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends is steadfast. As you work, study, and pursue your goals, we will continue working to preserve Antioch University’s independence and its mission.
Please visit forward.antioch.edu for the latest information. We welcome your support in the ways that feel most authentic to you.
In Solidarity,
Lori Varlotta
President, Antioch University
Steve Crandall
Chair, Antioch University Board of Governors