Professor Sues Immaculata University In Chesco For Discrimination

PHILADELPHIA, PA —An Immaculata University art teacher filed a civil lawsuit in the U.S. District Court here claiming the university discriminated against her because of her age and sex when demoting her from her position as art director.

Diane Grimes, 63, of Medford Lakes, N.J., is seeking $75,000 in damages in the lawsuit filed by Philadelphia lawyer, Jessica Tarapchak. Grimes is on the faculty website listed as a professor of art.

Grimes said in the lawsuit she suffers from physical and mental health issues caused by the university desecrating her office and destruction of her personal belongings after she raised issues of disparate treatment.

The university officials were not available to comment. A response has not been filed.

The lawsuit said Grimes was employed by the university, located in East Whiteland Township, Chester County, since 2005

According to the lawsuit:

Grimes was chair of the art department until 2007 when it merged with English, literature, communications, and language. Grimes served as director of art programs.

In February 2020, Immaculata stripped her of her title and gave her more responsibility without more pay.

In the summer of 2022, university officials disposed of her personal belongings, research materials, artwork, and more.

An employee called her a “hoarder.” The lawsuit said other offices, particularly men's offices, have clutter and safety hazards. As an example, she said, one faculty member lights candles in his office, posing a fire hazard.

Grimes also accused the university of not updating her computer equipment. In addition, Grimes said the university did not provide her with overnight accommodations during bad weather.

In general, Grimes said, she was bullied by staff members.