Wesley Lowery
Ohio University-Lancaster professor Regis Noroski resigned late last week amidst sexual harassment allegations from a former student.
The part-time health administration professor had been on paid leave since Dec. 27, and OU-L Dean James Smith accepted his resignation Friday.
"Our overriding concern is what is in the best interest of our students," Smith said in a statement. "The complaint was investigated appropriately. I have accepted Mr. Noroski's letter of resignation with the details to be determined."
Noroski told investigators he met up with the former student on Nov. 28 so she could return a calculator she had borrowed from him. That meeting turned into an ice cream date and a tour of his home — and ended with him giving her a $600 diamond ring.
An OU investigation in December concluded that the home tour and gifts were a violation of the university's sexual harassment policy.
In his resignation letter, Noroski never references the allegations or the incident with his former student, rather he cites the hospitalization of a family member for his stepping down.
"I have enjoyed my tenure at Ohio Univ.," Noroski wrote. "I think the program is well on its way and I am grateful for the opportunity afforded me."
Noroski has taught at OU since 2007 and earned $49,450 a year.
wl372808@ohiou.edu
