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As reported exclusively in FridayMusings earlier this week the Schoolcraft College Investigative report on Joan Gebhardt has just been released in response to a FOIA request. It paints an unflattering picture of a former Trustee who bullied and harassed staff, mostly women, to get her way.
The 156 page report, including exhibits, covers interviews with a complainant and six witnesses, with Gebhardt responding to the allegations as well. In fairness, alleged violations of six college policies were considered and two were substantiated- that Gebhardt did not treat others with fairness and dignity, and did not conduct herself in an exemplary manner at all times.
Upon readng the report these startling findings jump out:
“JG’s tone in emails and verbal interactions could be perceived as
condescending, belittling, and passive aggressive, regardless of her intent;”
“the behavior appeared to be pervasive, insulting, and often
intimidated others, especially those that were in more vulnerable positions;”
“the complainant along with all witnesses reported both CW (complaining witness) and
Witness C crying or being visibly upset on numerous occasions after interactions with the respondent.”
A reading of the report discloses that Gebhardt, buoyed by her own perceived self-importance, used her position as Chair of the Schoolcraft Board to demand immediate accommodation on reimbursement of her expenses, and to impose her will on a seemingly never-ending string of demands regarding college decisions and events.
In March, 2023 when this investigation was begun, but “before the respondent could be interviewed, she resigned from the Schoolcraft College Board. The complaint was closed since the respondent was no longer affiliated with or employed by the College.”
The investigation was re-started earlier this year when Gebhardt announced her intention to again run for Trustee. Her motivation was revealed by numerous witnesses who indicated Gebhardt told them she plans to make certain individuals' “life a living hell.”
Gebhardt’s former colleagues on the Board, Brian Broderick, Carol Strom, Brett Gierak, Dillon Breen, Terry Gilligan, Angela Jaafar are unanimously supporting Candy Little, who was appointed in April, 2023 to the vacant position following Gebhardt’s resignation.
Friday/Musings has joined Livonia Council President Brandon McCullough, Senator Dayna Polehanki, Michigan Building Construction Trades and Bricklayers Local 2, in endorsing Candy Little, a Senior Clinical Research Specialist in the pharmaceutical industry.
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