An adjunct lecturer at George Mason University has been dismissed from their post after a shocking incident involving alcohol consumption with undergraduate students during a scheduled class.
The Incident Unfolds
The unidentified political science professor reportedly permitted students to bring alcoholic beverages to a 400-level class on November 20. This occurred while students were presenting their end-of-semester projects. Although this level typically caters to older students, the university has not confirmed whether all attendees were of legal drinking age.
Emergency Response and Aftermath
The situation escalated when one student consumed so much alcohol that they lost consciousness. Emergency Medical Services were summoned to assist the incapacitated student around 6pm. While the exact location where the student collapsed—whether in the classroom, a nearby hallway, or a bathroom—remains unclear, Fairfax County Fire & Rescue responded to the call. Fortunately, the student has since recovered, and their parents have been notified of the incident.
University Investigation and Broader Implications
George Mason University acted swiftly, terminating the professor after multiple sources reported the behaviour. In a statement, GMU declared the actions 'egregiously violated' university policies. The institution is conducting ongoing outreach to all students taught by the instructor this semester to address their wellbeing.
Furthermore, the university has launched a broader investigation to determine if the professor was drinking with other classes. Police have also become involved, though the specific nature of their investigation is currently unknown. It remains unconfirmed whether any charges have been filed against the former professor.
This is not the first controversy for the Virginia-based institution this year. GMU is already under investigation by the US Department of Justice regarding potential discrimination in faculty hiring and promotion, and faced scrutiny in July over its handling of antisemitism claims.
