The Pierce College associate dean of agricultural, David Williams, has not been seen on campus since the fall semester started.
Several Pierce faculty members have been questioned as to whether or not he continues to be employed by the college and have refused to comment.
It is unknown at this time whether or not he is on leave and what the reason for that leave of absence may be.
“I can’t comment on personnel matters,” said Anna Davies, vice president of academic affairs.
It is also unknown whether or not his absence has anything to do with an investigation launched at the end of the spring semester involving his alleged disrespectful behavior towards faculty and students.
The investigation launched at the end of the spring semester by the compliance officer, Sylvia Silva, was due to complaints and written reports submitted to her by faculty and students.
Complaints about the dean, range from his alleged disrespect towards students and faculty to a disagreement over the upkeep of the equestrian center and the care of the horses housed there.
At the time the complaints were made Williams denied any wrongdoing including the mistreatment of the horses under the college’s care.
“These horses are in the best condition they have ever been; people compliment me all the time,” said Williams.
One of the complaints voiced against Williams was that he allowed a horse to suffer needlessly before was euthanized.
At the time of the investigation there were also several disagreements between Williams and other faculty members including the care of the equine center and the removal of the horses’ shoes.
