Montclair State Faces Discrimination Claims From Female Executives

MONTCLAIR, NJ — Two women at Montclair State University are suing their employer and alleging that university administrators failed to protect them from a “toxic, sexist and retaliatory” work environment.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Summer Jones, a South Orange resident, and Donna Sadlon, a Rutherford resident, both long-term executives at Montclair State University. It accuses chief information officer David Chun of displaying “dismissive and hostile behavior toward women,” including refusing to communicate, being abusive when he does communicate, undermining their authority and repeatedly favoring male subordinates.

The complaint alleges that university administrators allowed an “abusive and sexist work environment” to exist, despite repeated complaints of discrimination, harassment and retaliation from four high-level female executives.

The plaintiffs are seeking damages for lost wages, emotional distress and punitive damages.

“This lawsuit is about more than just two women – it’s about making sure that no woman at Montclair State is forced to endure this kind of discrimination and retaliation again,” said Nancy Erika Smith of Smith Mullin in Montclair, who filed the lawsuit with Justin Burns of McMoran O’Connor Bramley & Burns in Wall Township.

A spokesperson for the university told Patch on Tuesday that although the school hasn’t been served with this complaint, administrators “strongly dispute” the claims and characterizations shared by the plaintiff’s attorneys and plan to “vigorously defend against them.”

He added:

“Montclair State University is committed to maintaining a workplace where all employees are treated fairly and with respect. We maintain strict policies that prohibit discrimination and comply fully with all applicable laws. We remain dedicated to providing a positive and respectful work environment for all employees, and are confident the facts will demonstrate the university operated consistently with its commitments and legal requirements. As this is a pending litigation, we will not comment further.”

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