SPRINGFIELD, Mo. ― An investigation has found no evidence that Missouri State University discriminated against the top Black official at the school.
The Missouri State Board of Governors hired outside investigators after an online petition alleged that Ken Coopwood, vice president of diversity and inclusion, was subjected to “despicable and hostile” behavior by his staff. His supporters also alleged the school administration discriminated against Coopwood and marginalized him by restructuring his job a year ago. A summary of the investigator’s report was released Thursday, The Springfield News-Leader reported.
In the summary, investigators wrote, “Based upon our investigation, we find no credible evidence which leads us to conclude that Dr. Coopwood has been discriminated against because of his race in connection to his employment at the university.”
Stephen Hoven, chairman of the Board of Governors, said investigators interviewed 38 people, including 12 suggested by Coopwood, and reviewed dozens of documents.
“We are extremely pleased with the manner with which the allegations were investigated,” Hoven said in a news release. “The bottom line is that the report does not find evidence to support claims of discrimination and we are absolutely confident that this conclusion is accurate.”
Hoven said the board continues to support school president Clif Smart, who has said he never “mistreated nor discriminated against” Coopwood.
“I am pleased that the report supports our assertions that Missouri State strives to be a diverse and inclusive campus,” Smart said in the news release.
