Gallaudet Protesters Could Be Punished

From: WJLA - Washington,DC,USA - Dec 15, 2006

A Gallaudet University official says the school's administration will proceed with disciplinary actions against student protesters.

Gallaudet is the nation's top school for the deaf. Demonstrations over the fall at times shut down the university.The protesters were unhappy with the incoming president and succeeded in forcing the board to revoke her appointment.

School spokeswoman Mercy Coogan says the board of trustees has decided to let the administration move ahead with actions against the protesters as it normally would deal with infractions.

In November, the trustees put a freeze on disciplinary action while they gathered more information. The decision announced Friday lifts that freeze.

Students and faculty members protested for weeks over the appointment of former provost Jane Fernandes to the president's post, saying she lacked the necessary leadership skills. The board revoked her contract in October.

© 2006 WJLA-TV