Clemson professor fired over Charlie Kirk post reaches settlement: University supports faculty research and funding rights

Clemson professor fired over Charlie Kirk post reaches settlement

Clemson University professor Dr. Joshua Bregy has reached a settlement with the university after being fired in September 2025 over a social media post about the late Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, according to Fox News. Bregy, an assistant professor in the Department of Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences, had shared a Facebook post that condemned Kirk’s murder but also suggested that his rhetoric had consequences. Under the settlement, Bregy will remain employed with benefits until May 15, 2026, though he will not teach or interact with students. Clemson will also provide letters of recommendation and allow him to list the university as his affiliation for pending research grants.

Reason for termination

Fox News reports that Bregy’s termination followed his reposting of a message about Kirk’s murder. The post stated that Bregy did not support violence but described Kirk as a “flawed human being” whose rhetoric caused harm. Bregy wrote: “I’ll never advocate for violence in any form, but it sounds to me like karma is sometimes swift and ironic.” He also emphasized that “no one should be gunned down,” but noted that Kirk’s statements had consequences.

Terms of the settlement

According to Fox News, the agreement restores Bregy’s employment through May 15, 2026. He will remain on payroll with full benefits but will have no teaching or student interaction during this period. Bregy agreed to dismiss his lawsuit against Clemson University and its officials. The university’s provost, Robert H. Jones, will provide positive letters of recommendation for Bregy to assist with future employment.

Research and academic rights preserved

Fox News notes that the settlement allows Bregy to continue listing Clemson University as his institutional affiliation for any pending grants until his resignation date. His research activities and funding opportunities will therefore remain unaffected. The ACLU of South Carolina, which represented Bregy, called the settlement a victory for academic freedom and First Amendment rights for faculty.

Similar cases

Fox News reports that the settlement follows a similar case in Tennessee. There, Darren Michael, an associate professor at Austin Peay State University, was reinstated and awarded $500,000 after being fired for resharing a post about Charlie Kirk. These cases have attracted national attention to how universities handle faculty social media posts regarding controversial topics.Allen Chaney, Legal Director of the ACLU of South Carolina, told Fox News that the agreement “restores his employment, allows him to continue pursuing research funding, and deters the university from violating First Amendment rights in the future.”

Public and political reaction

Fox News highlights that several higher education employees faced criticism for sharing posts appearing to celebrate or justify Kirk’s murder. Republican lawmakers and conservative groups called for accountability from universities and faculty involved in such posts.