BIG RAPIDS, Mich. — In a full staff meeting witihin the College of Arts and Sciences at Ferris State University earlier this semester, professor of physical sciences Thomas Brennan revealed that he is a COVID-19 denier, leaving a comment that disturbed many fellow faculty members.
As first reported by the Ferris State Torch, FSU's student-run newspaper, following this meeting, Brennan has posted to social media several times denying COVID-19. Brennan has also used the N-word in recent tweets.
After these posts and these comments in the meeting, Ferris State has released a statement regarding Brennan.
"Upon learning of these new allegations, an investigation has been launched into the faculty member’s behavior and the faculty member has been placed on administrative leave. The comments and actions attributed to this faculty member do not represent the University’s mission and values and its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion." Ferris State said, adding the faculty member in question had been disciplined earlier this year for "unprofessional actions". "Further, as a University actively engaged in taking extraordinary measures to keep our faculty, staff and students safe, we categorically reject any comments made regarding the validity or impact of COVID-19. As an investigation into these allegations is underway, the University cannot comment further at this time."