UC law school dean out for now, exploring legal options

The dean of University of Cincinnati's College of Law, Jennifer Bard, was placed on administrative leave Wednesday.

Interim provost Peter Landgren made the announcement in an email Wednesday to the law school community. The email said the decision came after a "thorough evaluative process" and many conversations with Bard, law school faculty and other stakeholders.

A number of faculty members criticized Bard to Landgren in December 2016, even requesting her removal, according to public records obtained by The Enquirer. Faculty members also discussed a vote of no confidence, records show.

Bard, who joined UC as dean in July 2015, said in a statement she was "surprised at the precipitous action the University took so soon after this matter became public and revealed the deep divisions within the Law School Community and tensions over the use of the school's resources."

Under Bard's leadership, applications grew, more students passed the bar, the school’s national reputation improved, the Board of Trustees approved a new building and fundraising increased, according to Bard.

Bard said she was recruited to reduce a "significant financial deficit" and "establish sound financial controls," which she has made significant progress in doing.

She said Landgren's action raises serious questions about UC's failure to support the financial goals for which she was hired and the due process to which she is entitled. Bard's legal counsel is currently evaluating her legal options, the statement said.

In December, Landgren and Bard agreed to a six-month plan "to share perspectives and restore mutual trust and respect" that focused on coaching, mediated communication, periodic evaluation and objective metrics, records show.

"We had an agreement for a process that included bringing in a mediator to address these issues," Bard said in the statement. "I am deeply disappointed that the Interim Provost chose to close down this process and take this unprecedented action to frustrate the College of Law’s progress."

During Bard's leave, Landgren and Bard will quickly develop a transition plan for the college, according to Landgren's email. Senior faculty will step into transitional leadership roles to help with day-to-day operations. Landgren will also be available to meet with faculty and staff.

"Please know that the needs of the college and the outstanding education we provide our students are my highest priorities in this time of transition and beyond," Landgren wrote.

Landgren and Bard were not immediately available for comment.

The Enquirer will update this story.