San Diego, Calif.- First reported by sdcitytimes.com, Trudy Gerald, the dean of the Arts, Humanities and Communications departments at San Diego City College, has been placed on administrative leave, according to college officials.
Gerald has not been on campus since February 1st.
Trudy Gerald
In a statement to IVN, District Director of Communications Jack Beresford noted, "Trudy Gerald is currently on leave. Otherwise, District policy is that we do not comment on personnel issues."
Matilda Chavez acknowledged she is acting in Gerald's position, “I’m asking for patience from people on the campus,” Chavez told the City Times, “I am reading everything before I sign it.
Legal Action
It's not clear what led to Gerald being placed on leave although IVN has received copy of a lawsuit filed on behalf of three Hispanic professors last year. The suit names the College Board of Trustees and Gerald. The Plaintiffs claim Gerald engaged in among other things: Retaliation, Civil Rights Violations, and Harassment of employees.
There is currently a motion to dismiss the lawsuit which is pending in Federal court.
Leadership Lost
A source who wishes to remain confidential and has first hand knowledge of the situation said, "Under Gerald's 'leadership' we lost dozens of classes, hundreds of students did not get degrees or certificates. She destroyed that Radio, TV, Film program. People who work there probably won't go public out of fear."
Under the umbrella of the Arts, Humanities and Communications is the Radio, TV, Film program which has seen been decimated by cuts.
In 2016, longtime San Diego City College employee Larry Quick was sentenced for stealing more than $22,000 worth of electronic equipment -- including four digital cameras -- from his own department.
San Diego City College is part of the San Diego Community College District. The campuses include City, Mesa, and Miramar Colleges. The group also offers Continuing Education opportunities.