In January of 2022, Rozell "Prexy" Nesbitt was officially reported for sexual misconduct and harassment at Chapman University. Between January and May, numerous students came forward to professors, the Title IX Office, Deans of both Wilkinson College and the Peace Studies Department, and HR to say they shared similar experiences of harassment, misconduct, and sexually explicit language. Title IX was quick to dismiss the reports and offered no type of resolution or support for the students who came forward. The Peace Studies Department and Title IX let him continue to teach despite their knowledge of his misconduct, which was in direct violation of Title IX policy: quid pro quo conduct and unwelcome conduct. 

Both the Dean's Office and HR repeatedly said there was "nothing they could do", that the claims of women that came forward were not enough to warrant any action. The Panther interviewed multiple students and witnesses who reported him this past spring semester, and chose not to publish, after saying they would. On September 5th, they released an article about how he was unavailable to teach a first-year elective as a result of administrative leave. In the article, he is revered by students and professors alike, wishing they could take the class and calling the situation "unfortunate". In addition, The Panther states, "The exact reason as to why [Rozell Nesbitt was placed on administrative leave] has not been disclosed to The Panther as personnal matters cannot be legally discussed." Despite The Panther's vast knowledge of reports and personal stories from students, they still chose to publish the article without including any information regarding their prior knowledge of the multiple allegations against him.

Nesbitt has continued communication with students through the summer, including taking them out for food and asking them for rides both short and long distance, and maintained planning independent studies for the current semester. He has continued to use his power and privilege to take advantage of students. The problem has persisted. 

This is a call to the Administration, specifically the Peace Studies Department and Wilkinson College, to have Rozell "Prexy" Nesbitt permanently released from his position as a professor, and no longer recognized as a Presidential Fellow at Chapman University, effective immediately. "Administrative leave" is not a solution. He still poses a grave danger to students.

Chapman University has a responsibility to protect students. Everyone should have access to this information, even if there are certain groups or individuals that refuse to share or believe us. We will continue our transparency in efforts to keep current students safe until Chapman University acts, and Prexy Nesbitt no longer has access to students.

Roksana Gorgolewski '23, Briana Walker '22, Ramya Sinha '22, Sophia Morrissette '21, Mia Johnson '23, Olga Alvertos '23, Larissa Salazar '22, Lucile Henderson '21, Olivia Wagner '22, Stephanie Munduruca '22, Yasmeen Abu Khalaf '21, Livia Paschke '22, Student '23, Anika Manual '23