In an unprecedented move, the faculty of Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) has cast a resounding vote of "no confidence" in President Dr. Carson Castleman.
During a faculty assembly on January 28, 43 members voted in favor of the motion, 13 opposed it, and 13 abstained. Faculty members cited concerns about a hostile work environment, poor communication, the minimization of academic voices, infringements on academic freedom, and unprofessional behavior.
According to faculty complaints, Castleman has contributed to a hostile work environment, failed to maintain clear and effective communication, and minimized the role of academics in university affairs. Additionally, faculty members have cited concerns over infringements on academic freedom and what they describe as unprofessional and unethical behavior.
One faculty member, speaking anonymously, described the decision as a painful but necessary step.
“This is not a win for the faculty,” the faculty member stated. “It is a painful move made necessary to alert our board to problems that have been brewing on campus. We are all deeply saddened that we were forced to stand up and say ‘enough.’”
Dr. Castleman, appointed in August 2023, began his presidency on October 1, 2023. MVNU, a private Christian university in Mount Vernon, Ohio, serves 2,000 students from 25 states and 11 foreign countries.
The university community now awaits a response from the Board.
