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Controversy is surrounding the settlement of a lawsuit involving discrimination at the University of Iowa football program.
The $4.175 million settlement was reached between the State, the University of Iowa and 12 Black former Hawkeye football players who said both current and former coaches discriminated against them because of their race.
Coach Kirk Ferentz is not at all happy about this and neither is State Auditor Rob Sand.
In a letter to his fellow State Board of Appeal members, Sand wrote:
"Under Gary Barta’s leadership at the University of Iowa Athletics Department, we’ve had Peter Gray scandal plus three instances of discrimination totaling nearly $7 million in damages (setting aside other suits). After the largest settlement, Barta asserted no wrong was done. Now we have a new matter for $4 million more, and for the first time they want part paid from the taxpayers’ General Fund, even though they now collect tens of millions annually thru the Big Ten TV deal.
"Enough is enough. Clear personal accountability is necessary. I will not support taxpayers funding this settlement unless Gary Barta is no longer employed at the University and forfeits any severance or similar pay. I encourage you to join me. Real accountability will help prevent discrimination, protecting both taxpayers and future victims."
Coach Ferentz was originally a defendant in the lawsuit, but was dropped from it in recent days. He too is not happy about the settlement. He issued a statement.
“I am greatly disappointed in how this legal matter was resolved. However, I am grateful for the many players, parents, donors, fans, and others who remained supportive of our coaches and program during this time.
"The settlement negotiations took place between plaintiff’s counsel and the Iowa Attorney General’s Office which represents the University of Iowa and the Board of Regents. These discussions took place entirely without the knowledge or consent of the coaches who were named in the lawsuit. In fact, the parties originally named disagree with the decision to settle, fully believing that the case would have been dismissed with prejudice before trial.
"A motion for summary judgement was filed which outlined why the case should have been dismissed. Unfortunately, this settlement was reached between the plaintiff’s attorneys and the Iowa Attorney General’s Office before the judge had an opportunity to rule on the motion. We have been told the reason for the settlement is financial. As a part of the settlement, the coaches named were dismissed from the lawsuit and there is no admission of any wrongdoing.
"For more than two years, our program has been unfairly and negatively impacted by these allegations. “Members of the staff had their character and reputation tarnished by former members of our team who said things, then recanted many statements when questioned under oath.
"Today we move forward. My focus is entirely on the players, coaches, and staff as we prepare for the 2023 season.”
What do you think? Should the State of Iowa have settled the discrimination lawsuit at all?