Roger Ramsammy has been removed as president of Hudson Valley Community College in Troy following an investigation into a sexual harassment complaint against him. The college’s Board of Trustees voted to terminate its contract with Ramsammy Tuesday night.
Ramsammy, who was placed on leave in May, had led HVCC since July 2018. Board Chair Neil Kelleher says the college cannot share specific details of the complaint due to ongoing personnel and legal matters, but “the Board wishes to send a strong message that Hudson Valley does not tolerate inappropriate behavior by any or toward any member of the college community.” Ramsammy’s personal attorney called the misconduct claim baseless when it surfaced.
"Members of our community must know that the college and its Board of Trustees follow clearly established policies and procedures for addressing any employee complaint, claim or allegation in a fair, thorough and expeditious manner," Kelleher said in a statement following the Board vote Tuesday night.
"The Hudson Valley Community College Faculty Association agrees with the Board of Trustees' decision to terminate Dr. Roger Ramsammy's contract as President of Hudson Valley Community College. We believe this action was necessary to address the concerns that have arisen," the association said in a a statement later Tuesday night. "While we respect the Board's adherence to confidentiality concerning specific details of the investigation, it is crucial that the campus community be informed about the outcome of the investigation. We ask that the Board provide an update on the status of the investigation. As employees of the college, we deserve to know the outcome of the current investigation. Providing clarity on the current progress and the next steps in the process will help build trust and provide much-needed reassurance to our community."
Louis Coplin, the recently retired president for student affairs at HVCC, was appointed officer in charge when Ramsammy was put on leave and will continue in that role. Kelleher says the Board will begin a search for a new president.
