Clemson, South Carolina, September 19, 2025
News Summary
Clemson University has terminated two faculty members after an investigation into their inappropriate social media comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk. This decision follows a previous suspension of another professor for similar remarks. The university’s actions were affirmed by the S.C. Attorney General, who emphasized the need for corrective measures against incendiary comments. The terminations sparked controversy, with some students criticizing the university for perceived hypocrisy and concerns regarding freedom of speech, while others expressed support for the firings in light of the comments made.
Clemson, South Carolina – Clemson University has terminated two faculty members following an investigation into their inappropriate social media posts concerning the assassination of Charlie Kirk. This action builds on a previous suspension of a professor due to their comments about Kirk’s death, which resulted in complaints from numerous politicians and students.
The decision to fire these employees was underscored by a letter from S.C. Attorney General Alan Wilson to Clemson President James Clements, emphasizing the university’s legal authority to take corrective action against faculty who express “vile and incendiary” remarks online. In a statement, Clemson University confirmed that it had conducted a thorough investigation into the posts, leading to the firing of one employee and the removal of two additional faculty members, Robin Newberry and Earl Villaver, who were also placed on leave pending termination procedures.
Following the investigative findings, all three individuals—Robin Newberry, Professor Earl Villaver, and Professor Joshua Bregy—were dismissed from their positions at the university. The firings prompted a considerable backlash from students and Republican leaders who expressed profound outrage over the faculty members’ social media activity, leading to calls for their dismissal. The chairman of the Clemson College Republicans articulated concerns about the nature of the remarks made by the faculty and expressed sadness regarding Kirk’s tragic assassination.
In contrast, certain students criticized the university’s response, perceiving it as hypocritical and questioning the implications for freedom of speech on campus. Congresswoman Nancy Mace added to the discourse by stating that failing to terminate the professors would be considered a betrayal to taxpayers, urging swift action to address the situation. Clemson University’s Board of Trustees stood in support of President Clements’ decision regarding the terminations, reflecting a commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all students.
The firings raised concerns about the timing of the personnel decisions, as university officials assured that the actions were consistent with institutional policies and legal protocols. This incident has ignited further discussions on campus and social media platforms, revealing a diversity of opinions about the university’s response to the controversial remarks made by faculty members.
Notably, the terminations reflect ongoing tensions surrounding free speech within academic settings, where political statements can trigger significant institutional responses. The university’s actions mirrored similar responses from other South Carolina institutions regarding staff comments related to Charlie Kirk’s assassination.
After the dismissals, the names of the terminated faculty members were promptly removed from Clemson’s official website. Although some experts have raised alarms over the implications these firings may have on academic freedom and potential legal consequences, the firings are a clear indication of the university’s stance on maintaining an educational environment free from incendiary and harmful rhetoric.
FAQ
Why were two faculty members dismissed from Clemson University?
Clemson University has terminated two faculty members following an investigation into their inappropriate social media posts concerning the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
What prompted the initial suspension of a professor at Clemson University?
The initial suspension of a professor came due to a social media post about Kirk’s death, which drew complaints from multiple politicians and students.
What actions were taken by the S.C. Attorney General regarding this issue?
S.C. Attorney General Alan Wilson sent a letter to Clemson President James Clements asserting that the university has the legal authority to take corrective action against faculty making “vile and incendiary” remarks online.
What has the response from students and political figures been about the social media posts?
Students and Republican leaders expressed outrage over the social media posts, leading to significant backlash and calls for the firings of the involved faculty.
Was there support for the university’s initial decisions concerning these terminations?
Clemson University’s Board of Trustees supported President Clements’ decision regarding the faculty members’ terminations.
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Additional Resources
- SC Daily Gazette
- WYFF 4
- WBTV
- Post and Courier
- Greenville Online
- Wikipedia: Freedom of Speech
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Social Media
- Google Search: Clemson University
- Google Scholar: Academic Freedom
- Google News: Charlie Kirk
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