In a recent legal development, a federal judge has thrown out a lawsuit brought by former FAMU Athletic Director, Kortne Gosha. Gosha alleged he was retaliated against and forced to resign after reporting misconduct at the university. However, U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle granted FAMU's motion for summary judgment, dismissing Gosha's claims.
The judge's decision, made public on Tuesday through a written order, emphasized that the claims were dismissed "with prejudice," barring Gosha from bringing them up again. This ruling marks a significant turn in the legal dispute between Gosha and the university.
According to court documents, on April 20, 2022, FAMU President Larry Robinson presented Gosha with an ultimatum: resign immediately or face termination. Gosha opted to step down, signing a severance agreement that included compensation totaling nearly $100,000, covering three months' pay, accrued leave, as well as additional funds for game guarantees and out-of-pocket expenses incurred during his tenure.
Despite Gosha's claim that he signed the agreement under duress, Judge Hinkle ruled it as valid since Gosha accepted payments under it before initiating legal action against FAMU. The judge stated that there was no evidence of discrimination or retaliation in Gosha's termination, attributing it to three legitimate reasons unrelated to such claims.
These reasons, outlined in the order, pertained to Gosha's handling of various matters, including proposals for streaming FAMU sporting events, placement of FAMU signage on a NASCAR vehicle, and attempts to hire a women's track coach. Judge Hinkle noted Gosha's failure to keep President Robinson informed or obtain his approval before proceeding with these initiatives.
In response to the latest development, Gosha declined to comment, while his attorney, Marie Mattox, could not be reached immediately for comment.
FAMU, in a separate motion, requested that if the court found the employment agreement void, Gosha be required to return the compensation he received. Judge Hinkle stated he would rule on this matter separately.
Regarding the ongoing litigation, FAMU declined to comment, citing its policy against discussing matters under active litigation. A related lawsuit filed by former associate athletics director Michael Johnson, hired by Gosha in 2020, is still pending in federal court.
I never believed that Gorsha was qualified to be FAMU’s AD. I believe he was hired as a favor to his friend, Coach Willie Simmons. I’m happy that the judge ruled in FAMU’s favor.
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