Nearly two months after allegations of racial discrimination during this year’s formal sorority recruitment, University of Alabama System employee Emily Jamison has retired from her position as director for University, president’s and chancellor’s events.
“Emily retired from UA last month for personal reasons,” said Chris Bryant, assistant director of media relations and director of research communications, Thursday, Nov. 7.
In an article published by The Crimson White Sept. 11 titled “The Final Barrier,” Jamison, who served as a recruitment advisor for the UA chapter of Chi Omega, was named by an active member of the sorority as one of the reasons the sorority dropped a black potential new member during formal recruitment.
In the article, Jamison responded to the allegations of racial discrimination with a statement to The Crimson White:
“As a private membership organization, Chi Omega’s membership selection process is confidential; however, our criteria for membership is simple, we seek women who reflect our values and purposes. Our recruitment processes and procedures were followed, and while I cannot take away the disappointment a potential new member or chapter member may feel, I can share that all women were treated fairly and consistently in our process.”
Following the publication of the article, UA administration and Jamison became subject to public criticism for potential racial discrimination in formal sorority recruitment. UA President Judy Bonner issued a statement two days later on Sept. 13 but did not address the allegations concerning Jamison.
Jamison joined the University in 1999 and has since worked in event management throughout her employment. During her time serving as director of events, Jamison was also a member of the planning committee for the 2003 Through the Doors celebration, an event honoring the 40th anniversary of the University’s desegregation in 1963.
According to University financial records, Jamison was compensated $104,985.48 for her work in 2012.
Cathy Andreen, director of UA media relations, said in an emailed statement that a replacement for Jamison’s position has not been named.
“A replacement will be named, but no timeline has been established for when this will happen,” Andreen said. “The events staff is handling the office’s responsibilities at this time.”
A position opening for director of University, president’s and chancellor’s events has yet to be posted on the University’s employment database as of Tuesday.
Bryant said he could not provide a specific date of Jamison’s leave.
