***This is a follow-up to a previously reported story.***
Cumberland University has dismissed two employees who celebrated the assassination of Charlie Kirk. University president Dr. Paul Stumb announced the decision Friday in a statement released on the school’s social media accounts.
“A message from Cumberland University President, Dr. Paul C. Stumb:
At Cumberland University, we are committed to fostering an environment where learning, growth, and personal development can flourish free from disruption or concern.
After a thorough and thoughtful review process, I would like to confirm that a member of our faculty, Dr. Michael Rex, and a member of our staff, Mr. Max Wood, both of whom made inappropriate comments on the internet related to the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk, are no longer employed by the University. This decision was not made lightly. We understand the importance and impact of this action, and we want to emphasize that we conducted a comprehensive investigation prior to making our decision.
We remain steadfast to our mission to promote higher education, nurture academic excellence, and support a safe and inclusive learning environment for all.”
The move followed backlash from local leaders, including Lebanon Mayor and former Cumberland professor Rick Bell.
“Cumberland University has been a big part of my life. I am a graduate and former teacher of almost 20 years. Nothing makes me more proud than when a former student tells me how much they enjoyed my class.
This week, that pride for Cumberland has turned to shame with the words of eSport coach Max Wood and English professor Michael Rex. Thankfully, Mr. Wood resigned.
Over many years, Necole and I have supported Cumberland with our time, talents and financially. However, these statements do not reflect our core values and beliefs. As long as Michael Rex remains employed at Cumberland, we will no longer provide that support.
I want Cumberland University to succeed. I also want Cumberland to return to its historic foundation of educating students instead of indoctrinating them.”
News about these faculty members comes after the cancellation of the university’s October Heifner-Martin Endowed Lecture Series with former MSNBC contributor Matthew Dowd. Per sources, the cancellation comes from Dowd following his termination from the network.
Wilson County District Attorney Jason Lawson and long time supporter of Cumberland University, canceled his upcoming lecture stating, “Both personally and as District Attorney, I will not partner with an organization wherein an employee celebrates the commission of a crime, especially one as horrendous as this one. Words matter, and despite my past support of Cumberland, taking a stand here is important.”
Cumberland’s administration has not commented on what measures it will take to prevent similar incidents or to address concerns about ideological bias on campus.
