UPDATE: A former professor at Valdosta State University (VSU), Dr. Brian Gerber, has filed a lawsuit against VSU President Richard Carvajal, the University System of Georgia Board of Regents, and Chief Audit Officer Heidi Cox. This urgent legal action stems from allegations of due process violations and breaches of his retirement agreement.
Dr. Gerber’s complaint claims he was forced to choose between termination or retirement “with full benefits” after being accused of misappropriating state funds associated with the STEAM program and the Valdosta Early College Academy (VECA). The lawsuit details that VSU’s actions were prompted by Cox’s recommendation, following her findings regarding discrepancies in funding related to the SciTrek Foundation, Inc., a now-defunct program that Dr. Gerber managed.
The financial scrutiny began after a summer camp hosted by the STEAM Center in 2023, which reportedly exceeded its budget by more than $2,500. Delays in funding from the University System of Georgia further complicated the situation, with funds not deposited until August 2, 2023. The lawsuit alleges this financial mismanagement was misinterpreted, resulting in accusations of “unfair kickbacks” to Dr. Gerber.
Dr. Gerber retired on March 28, 2025, following a contentious dispute with the university. He claims that he was assured by Justin Arrington, the Chief Legal Affairs Officer, that his retirement would come with full benefits. However, the lawsuit alleges that Cox presented misleading information in a report titled “No STEAM, Just Scams,” which referenced Dr. Gerber in a manner that could be construed as defamatory.
Following this presentation, VSU reportedly declared Dr. Gerber “ineligible for rehire” due to alleged “ethics violations/misappropriation of funds.” He only learned of this designation when another institution, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, attempted to hire him. The university did not inform him of his ineligibility until he requested a hearing.
Dr. Gerber’s attempts to appeal the decision were met with silence from VSU, prompting him to file Open Records requests. The university’s failure to comply with state law regarding these records is also part of his complaint.
The lawsuit accuses VSU and its officials of violating procedural due process, breaching his employment and retirement agreements, defamation, and failing to adhere to the Open Records Act.
As of now, VSU has declined to comment on the ongoing litigation, with spokesperson Robbyn DeSpain stating, “Valdosta State University does not comment on pending litigation.”
This developing story raises significant concerns about due process and the treatment of faculty within academic institutions. The ramifications of this lawsuit could have lasting effects on VSU and the broader University System of Georgia.
Stay tuned for more updates as this case unfolds.
