Wendy Hensel, a finalist for the president of the University of Hawaii, denied allegations of bias against a Black law professor while at Georgia State University. The professor, Tanya Washington, complained about Hensel’s handling of appointing a new dean. Hensel clarified that the complaint was against Leslie Wolf, the interim dean she selected, not against her. Washington raised concerns about mistreatment by Wolf and Hensel, including a negative job review and rejection of a fellowship.
Hensel defended herself during an interview with Civil Beat, stating that no discrimination complaints were filed against her. She also clarified that she did not yell at Washington during a faculty meeting or inform her about the fellowship rejection the same day. Washington challenged Wolf’s review, citing omissions of her scholarly work. Ultimately, the negative review was upheld, but it was noted that Washington’s work was substantial.
Hensel denied involvement in the dispute between Washington and Wolf, stating that she was uninvolved in the case. Despite being friends with Wolf, Hensel stressed that Washington’s complaint did not involve her. Faculty members at Georgia State, who remained anonymous, confirmed that Washington’s concerns were widely circulated on campus.
Hensel emphasized that such disputes are common at universities and downplayed Washington’s complaint as a non-event. Her interview with Civil Beat aimed to address the allegations and clarify her position in the matter. The University of Hawaii is in the process of choosing a new president to replace the retiring David Lassner and Hensel is one of the two finalists.
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