The Board of Trustees of Calvin University is aware that Dr. Wiebe Boer’s recent departure from the University has caused some members of the Calvin community concern and questions. In an effort to correct misinformation and address concerns from community members, the Board offers this additional information:
The University received a report alleging Dr. Boer engaged in unwelcome and inappropriate communication and attention toward a non-student member of the campus community. While the report came through the University’s Title IX office, no formal complaint was made to trigger a formal Title IX process, nor did the Board make a finding that he engaged in sexual harassment as defined by Title IX. As part of the Board’s response to the information in the report, Dr. Boer was notified of all of the allegations in the report and was provided an opportunity to provide a response to the full Board of Trustees. While he denied some of the allegations, Dr. Boer admitted to sending the communications at issue. Based on these admitted communications, the Board determined that Dr. Boer’s conduct was concerning and inappropriate and that he could not continue to serve as President of the University.
Of specific concern were the volume, frequency and tone of Dr. Boer’s communication with a woman who was not his wife. These concerns were amplified by the power dynamic, considering Dr. Boer’s position as President of the University and the woman’s role in the community. In his response to the entire Board of Trustees, Dr. Boer characterized those communications as “flirtatious” and “inappropriate.” He also reported to Board leadership that he had deleted the messages from his phone knowing they were wrong.
Ultimately, Dr. Boer’s employment at Calvin was governed by an employment agreement that gives the Board the authority to determine his fitness to remain in the role. In response to concerns we have heard from various members of the community, the Board recently conducted a careful and thorough review that resulted in a unanimous Board affirmation of the process of information-gathering and deliberation that led to Dr. Boer’s resignation. From the moment the Board received the report, our intent has been to act justly and—to the degree possible given the circumstances—confidentially in the best interests of the Calvin community. The Board has made significant efforts to resolve this matter amicably with Dr. Boer, including offering financial support to both Dr. and Mrs. Boer which exceeds the University’s contractual obligation, as well as an offer to assist in relocation from the Manor. Unfortunately, those offers have been refused, though the Board remains open to assisting with the Boers’ relocation.
We remain confident that Dr. Boer’s decision to resign, and the Board’s decision to accept his resignation, are in the best interests of all involved. We continue to lament the concern, confusion, and frustration this abrupt transition has caused for some in our community, and we understand that it will take time for all those affected by these events to find healing and restoration. Our thoughts are particularly with the reporting party. We ask that all community members speak and act in a way that is respectful and sensitive to the fact that this individual is a part of our community.
The Board is grateful to the dedicated faculty, staff, and students of Calvin University, and to Interim President Elzinga and the Cabinet, all of whom have navigated this unexpected transition with grace and perseverance.
