Ex-SJSU Athletics Official Claims Misconduct Cover-Up

Paul Steinbach Headshot

The former number-two official in the San Jose State University athletic department alleges that the school's president and athletic director covered up allegations of misconduct, including sexual abuse, and retaliated against whistleblowers.

As reported by USA TODAY, former deputy athletics director Steve O’Brien alleges in a torte notice that SJSU president Mary Papazian, athletic director Marie Tuite, senior associate vice president for personnel Joanne Wright and senior associate athletics director Eileen Daley were complicit in the wrongful termination and in covering up the other allegations.

O’Brien, who was fired March 2, filed the claim on Aug. 26. In California, a person who intends to sue a public agency must first file a tort claim notice, giving the agency 45 days to investigate and potentially settle before a lawsuit can be filed. O’Brien seeks damages in excess of $25,000.

Log in to view the full article
Buyer's Guide
Information on more than 3,000 companies, sorted by category. Listings are updated daily.
Learn More
Buyer's Guide
AB Show 2023 in Baltimore
AB Show is a solution-focused event for athletics, fitness, recreation and military professionals.
Nov 1-4, 2023
Learn More
AB Show 2023