JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Brian Noland, the president of East Tennessee State University, addressed the situation concerning the suspension of two professors following their social media remarks on the passing of political activist Charlie Kirk.

“Starting my day, I couldn’t have predicted the events that would unfold,” Noland remarked. “It was brought to my attention that certain university personnel had shared social media posts that were extremely troubling. After consulting with staff, reviewing policies, and examining our faculty handbook, I decided to place those professors on administrative leave to allow for a thorough investigation of their actions.”

The two professors, Andrew Herrmann and Russell Brown, are tenured, said Noland, thus the review will take more time to complete.

He also noted, “The faculty’s protection under our tenure and promotion processes ensures a comprehensive review. This procedural review will commence swiftly.”

Currently, ETSU lacks specific social media guidelines for its faculty and staff, although it does have a code of conduct. This incident has prompted Noland to consider the possibility of establishing a social media policy, although he remains undecided on the matter.

Noland condemned the comments made by the professors and said they do not reflect university values.

“Our university is taking this issue seriously because the comments do not align with the university’s values or positions,” he stated. “I regret any distress these comments may have caused, especially to a family mourning their father.”

Noland said that there is no definite time frame for how long the review of the action will take.