State Watch

Ex-senator, University of Oklahoma president severs all ties with college after sexual harassment investigation

A former Oklahoma politician resigned from his position at the University of Oklahoma in the wake of an investigation into alleged sexual misconduct that he continues to deny. 

The University of Oklahoma Board of Regents said in a statement Thursday the Title IX issue has been concluded, and David Boren “has chosen to resign,” terminating his ties with the school.

The Democrat served as governor of Oklahoma from 1975 to 1979 and proceeded to serve three terms in the Senate, ending in 1994. 

Boren retired as president in June 2018 but continued to teach political science. In March, Boren was accused of sexual harassment by university aides, according to the Chronicle of Higher Education.{mosads}

In a statement released through his attorney, Clark Brewster, Boren continued to deny the allegations, calling them a “personal attack that was so vicious and relentless that it defied my comprehension.”

“While I was tempted to pursue a continued battle to protect my reputation and demonstrate that I was innocent of any wrongdoing, I felt it was best for the university and all concerned for me to suggest a resolution to end this divisive and unfair controversy,” Boren said. 

Boren still faces criminal investigation into the allegations by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations (OSBI), according to the Oklahoman. 

“We are mindful of the OSBI investigation and will be watchful as to the determination of the grand jury,” the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents said in its statement. 

The grand jury may hear testimony in July, according to the Oklahoman.