Missouri State's Biff Williams is involved in Utah Tech's lawsuit over an “inappropriate” incident

Richard “Biff” Williams, president of Missouri State University, is embroiled in a federal lawsuit related to his time as president of Utah Tech University. The lawsuit alleges he arranged vegetables in an inappropriate display on the porch of a colleague who was recovering from a vasectomy and attributed the gesture to other employees.

Williams has since addressed the move, saying it was a “mistake” and a “misjudgment” that he accepted as a “learning moment.”

However, according to the plaintiffs, the university conducted a “sham investigation to protect him” because he resigned and transferred to Missouri State shortly after the incident. They claim the incident was part of a “toxic, hostile and toxic work environment.”

Missouri State University's Board of Governors held an emergency meeting Friday afternoon after the news broke. According to the Springfield News-Leader, an emergency clause was used to circumvent the required 24-hour notice period.

The Board responded to multiple media inquiries by releasing a statement that read:

“The Board of Governors of Missouri State University is aware of the pending lawsuit and remains confident in President Williams’ ability to lead Missouri State University. We are committed to working with him to ensure the university provides a safe and welcoming environment for all students, faculty and staff.”

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