Former College of the Canyons Chancellor Dianne Van Hook has filed a lawsuit alleging wrongful termination against the district.
Court documents show Van Hook is also suing on claims of age and racial discrimination, and a hostile work environment. Last year, in July, the Board of Trustees placed Van Hook on administrative leave before she retired shortly after.
The lawsuit claims a climate survey released two months before the board’s vote was used to ‘oust’ her. Her legal counsel states that the vote took place despite the board being aware that the survey could not be used to inform employment decisions. Van Hook also accuses a board member of calling for her firing because she was too old.
The former chancellor alleges the board’s actions caused severe emotional distress and that she was forced to retire under threats of losing her retirement and contract benefits. She claims she was surveilled and denied access to her office before her leave began.
Van Hook is seeking over $4 million in damages, as well as attorney fees, related to the lawsuit.
COC officials responded that the district has received the lawsuit and will vigorously defend against the allegations. Beyond that, no further comments on pending litigation will be provided.
