FAU Faculty Member Placed on Leave Over Charlie Kirk Controversy (2025)

Florida Atlantic University confirmed on Saturday that it has placed a tenured faculty member on administrative leave after what the university said was repeated comments on social media about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.Although FAU did not name the faculty member who was placed on administrative leave, Dr. Karen Leader, an associate professor of art history confirmed to WPBF 25 News Sunday night that she is the faculty member placed on administrative leave.Leader told WPBF 25 News that FAU's accusation that she made repeated comments on social media about Kirk's death was inaccurate."I did not mention his death or his murder," Leader said. "I reposted information about who Charlie Kirk was, including videos, quotes, and articles. My intention, along with other posters, was to counter a rapidly emerging narrative insisting that Mr. Kirk was moderate."FAU says an investigation will be conducted.“It is our expectation that all employees pursue the university’s mission and values to promote higher education, cultivate academic excellence, and support the personal growth of our students,” FAU President Adam Hasner said in a statement. “Our focus remains on our academic community’s responsibility to promote civil discourse, conduct healthy debate and treat one another with respect. This applies to all students, faculty, and staff no matter their political leanings.”Kirk, 31, was shot and killed during an outdoor event at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10. On Sept. 12, Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested in connection with the killing of Kirk.Stay up-to-date: The latest headlines and weather from WPBF 25Get the latest news updates with the WPBF 25 News app. You can download it here.

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