McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC Secures $150,000 Settlement in USC Sexual Harassment Case

When students go away to college, their parents naturally expect the university to create a safe environment for learning and growth. Sadly, Mary Elizabeth Johns didn’t have the experience she expected at the University of South Carolina (USC). In a lawsuit she filed under Title IX, Johns detailed the inappropriate attention she received from her history professor.

When Johns reported the behavior, USC’s response failed to address the allegations in a way that effectively informed her of her rights. Johns has now reached a settlement in a successful resolution that not only compensates her for the unfortunate experiences but also holds the university accountable. The results should help bring changes in the institution’s policies to protect future students from sexual abuse.

Background on the case

Johns alleged grooming and sexual harassment at the hands of her history professor, David Snyder, from 2018 through 2020. During her time at USC, Johns was experiencing PTSD related to her role as a caregiver for ill family members. According to her account, Snyder knew about the challenges she was facing and exploited her vulnerability to get close to her under the guise of serving as a mentor. Johns reported that Snyder invited her to his home, that he attempted to kiss and touch her, and made unwanted advances.

Johns was uncomfortable enough to report the behavior to a USC-affiliated counselor. However, that counselor did not inform her of her rights under Title IX or her ability to formally file a complaint against Snyder. Johns presented evidence in the form of 184 email exchanges that demonstrated Synder’s behavior.

Seeking justice

Johns chose to take her case to court in an effort to hold both the university and Snyder accountable. The evidence, including the emails, helped to build a case that the behavior was inappropriate and that USC neglected to respond appropriately when Johns reported the conduct.

McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC worked to secure a settlement and sought a commitment from USC to change its policies to prevent other students from facing the same treatment as Johns. The case settled for $150,000, and USC agreed to make meaningful changes to its Title IX policy to protect students and respond more appropriately when students report inappropriate actions on campus.

Policy changes at USC

As part of the settlement, USC agreed to some specific policy changes. Some of the actions the school will take include:

• Clearer reporting processes related to sexual misconduct.
• Improved training for USC faculty and staff.
• Stricter disciplinary measures for professors who engage in misconduct.
• Appointment of an independent Title IX coordinator.

Johns isn’t the first USC student to report improper conduct at the university. Ten women previously made abuse allegations between 2017 and 2021. The pattern suggests a more systemic problem with how the university handles these allegations and with its efforts to protect students.

Aftermath of the case

Although Synder continues to deny the allegations, referring to them as “wholly false,” he is no longer employed by the university. He is also prohibited from contacting students.

Johns plans to continue to advocate for survivors of sexual abuse, harassment, and misconduct and to promote safer communities. Following the resolution of the case, she spoke about her experiences and offered advice to others in a similar position.

“Telling someone feels like it will be the scariest thing in the world,“ Johns said. “Please know that you are not alone. You deserve safety, community, and respect.”

Survivors have rights; they need to know they can exercise them

Sexual criminal offenses happen on campuses more often than many people realize. According to data from the US Department of Education’s Campus Safety Survey, there were reports of 11,582 cases of criminal sexual conduct on campuses in 2021 (the most recent year published). Those cases may involve rape, fondling, statutory rape, or incest.

The high number of reports shows that universities need to do more to prevent this type of conduct on campuses.

“Every student should feel empowered to pursue their education without fear of harm,” said S. Randall Hood in a statement following the settlement. “This case stands as a reminder that when universities fail to take the necessary steps to protect their students, those harmed have the right — and the ability — to hold institutions accountable.”

Seeking justice and accountability on college campuses

The positive resolution of Johns’ case shows that it’s possible to hold universities accountable. At McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC, our attorneys work to achieve justice and to pressure institutions to make positive changes that protect students on their campuses. If you or someone you know suffered from sexual misconduct while attending university, you have rights. Contact McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC today to learn how our dedicated South Carolina sex abuse lawyers can support you during this challenging time. Reach out today to schedule a free, confidential case evaluation.