News Update

San Jose State president to resign in wake of sex misconduct scandal

San Jose State President Mary Papazian announced Thursday that she would resign at the end of the fall term on Dec. 21. Her resignation comes days after the university reached a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice over a sexual harassment case involving an athletic trainer, Scott Shaw. Student-athletes said Shaw abused them for years.

“The best interest of the campus continues to be at the forefront of every decision I make,” Papazian said, in a statement. “After thoughtful consideration, I have made the decision to step away as president. I truly love this university and believe this choice will allow the focus to be positively and solely on our talented, diverse, and outstanding campus. It has been my great honor and privilege to work with the exceptional SJSU students, faculty, staff, alumni and community partners.”

The DOJ report found that the university failed to investigate Shaw’s actions and retaliated against employees that tried to protect students.

Papazian, in her statement, said that the health and safety of the campus remains a priority and that she would continue to cooperate with the ongoing federal investigation surrounding Shaw.

“This transition does not impact our intention and obligation to understand what occurred and how the university responded at the time,” Papazian said. “I made a promise to our community and to the affected student-athletes and their families, and I plan to honor it. My heart, apologies and prayers continue to be with those student-athletes who suffered a breach of trust during their time at the university.”


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