High Country Times

Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) is seeking accountability from George Mason University following allegations of misconduct and sexual harassment by a former professor.

In a letter addressed to George Mason University President Dr. Gregory Washington and Antonin Scalia Law School Dean Kenneth C. Randall, Foxx demanded answers concerning reports that Joshua Wright, a former professor, allegedly used his academic influence to seduce and harass female students in his law classes.

The report claims that Professor Wright's conduct was widely known on campus but he continued to be regarded as an esteemed faculty member. This inquiry coincides with the anniversary of Title IX, legislation designed to protect students from harassment and misconduct.

Foxx wrote: "On June 8, 2024, The Wall Street Journal published a troubling investigative report about former Antonin Scalia Law School (law school) professor Joshua Wright’s apparent use of his influence over academic and career opportunities to seduce young female law students into inappropriate sexual relationships or to harass them sexually at various points during the period 2004-2023, when he served on the faculty."

She continued: "Furthermore, it appears Professor Wright 'evaded scrutiny over affairs with students because the university, like Wilson Sonsini [law firm with which Wright associated], found him too valuable to lose,' according to allegations of the women. 'His conduct was known around campus, those women said, and complaints to school officials in past years went nowhere.' … As Chairwoman of the Committee charged with oversight of Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 (Title IX), I am deeply disturbed by the allegations in the report."

Foxx concluded her letter by requesting:

- An explanation of all steps taken by the law school or George Mason University to investigate each student's allegations and their outcomes.

- Copies of all Title IX policies and procedures in place during 2004-2023.

- Steps taken by both institutions to prevent such incidents from recurring.

For further details on Foxx's letter, click here.