News Summary
Todd Hagins, the former general counsel of Winthrop University, has filed a federal complaint alleging his termination was in retaliation for opposing racism. The complaint details ongoing issues of discrimination at the university, raising concerns about its commitment to diversity. This situation has sparked a broader discussion on racism within academic institutions, particularly in light of another employee’s allegations against a supervisor. The EEOC is now investigating Hagins’ claims amidst a scheduled emergency meeting by the university’s board of trustees.
Rock Hill, South Carolina – Todd Hagins, the former general counsel and secretary to the board of trustees at Winthrop University, has filed a federal complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) alleging that he was terminated in retaliation for refusing to take action against an employee who reported instances of “blatant racism” at the institution. Hagins, who held the general counsel position from March 2023 until his termination on September 9, 2024, claims that his dismissal was a direct response to his opposition to discriminatory behaviors by the university’s leadership.
The EEOC complaint, submitted on May 1, 2025, positions Hagins’ termination within a broader context of ongoing investigations into racism and discrimination at Winthrop University, particularly an ongoing complaint lodged by Amy Bailey, a current employee. Bailey’s allegations detail encounters with her superior, Tammie Phillips, who allegedly used racial slurs during conversations in June 2023 and again in April 2024. Bailey asserts that she observed numerous racist comments in the workplace and faced retaliation after reporting Phillips’ conduct.
According to Hagins, the retaliation against Bailey involves Phillips, along with Lisa Cowart, the university’s human resources vice president, and President Edward A. Serna. Hagins contends that the university faces a critical decision regarding its commitment to diversity and inclusion initiatives, suggesting that the administration’s actions may be contrary to those values by failing to address the reported racism.
Details of the Complaint
The EEOC is now responsible for investigating Hagins’ claims, which are positioned against the backdrop of an emergency meeting scheduled for May 6, 2025, by Winthrop’s board of trustees. The meeting, which will include an unspecified executive session, aims to address the concerns raised in both Hagins’ and Bailey’s complaints.
Background of Todd Hagins
Prior to his role at Winthrop University, Hagins brought considerable legal experience to the position, having served as a federal prosecutor and as the general counsel for the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED). His professional background positions him uniquely to understand the implications of legal processes and workplace equity, adding weight to his allegations against the university.
Broader Implications
Both complaints highlight ongoing issues of racism and discrimination within Winthrop University, raising questions about the environment and culture at the institution. As these complaints proceed through the EEOC process, they may contribute to a larger dialogue surrounding workplace conduct and accountability in academic settings.
Hagins’ actions, alongside Bailey’s claims, underscore the challenges faced by organizations in addressing reports of abuse and discrimination while maintaining a supportive atmosphere for employees. The outcomes of these investigations could have significant implications not only for the individuals involved but for the university’s policies and practices regarding diversity and inclusion.
While the specifics of the board’s agenda for the May 6 meeting remain undisclosed, the situation at Winthrop University has already sparked widespread discussions about racism and the necessity for equitable treatment within educational institutions. With the ramifications of these complaints potentially affecting the broader university community, stakeholders are anticipated to closely monitor developments as they unfold.
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Additional Resources
- FITSNews: Winthrop Accused of Racism
- Wikipedia: Higher Education in the United States
- Herald Online: Winthrop University News
- Google Search: Winthrop University
- Post and Courier: Winthrop University Probe
- Google Scholar: Winthrop University Racism
- The State: Winthrop University Politics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Racism
- Post and Courier: Winthrop Professor Review
- Google News: Winthrop University Racism
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