DE PERE, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – There has been a whirlwind of confusion surrounding St. Norbert College President Brian Bruess and his decision to step aside next year. Now, there are people within the school’s community — including former president Thomas Kunkel — who would like answers from the board of trustees.
In a recent letter to the board Kunkel wrote that he is shocked and disappointed to hear that Bruess would be stepping down at the end of the academic year. He described the actions of the trustees during this process to be “suspiciously secretive and abrupt, marked by widespread confusion, misinformation, disinformation” and “bad faith.”
Kunkel’s concerns are echoed by St. Norbert students. They protested in support of Bruess on Tuesday, and they also started an online petition that has more than 2,500 signatures.
Going forward, students want a list of demands met by the board of trustees. In a letter, the Student Government Association asked to be included in the process of picking a new president as well as more transparency and communication.
The letter goes on to address some of the safety concerns and fears of students on campus, which stemmed from an investigation of the school’s sexual assault policies and Father Jay Fostner’s handling of sexual assault allegations. Fostner went on a yearlong sabbatical after St. Norbert concluded the school’s policies were solid. Students want Fostner removed indefinitely; however, there is still speculation about him returning in 2020.
Trustees have not specifically responded to the students’ demands, but they did release a letter on Friday to thank everyone on their feedback regarding Bruess transition. The letter states that Bruess’ decision to step down is a private matter and expresses hope that everyone will remember to follow their ethical and moral obligations to each other moving forward.
