In the News: Robin Shea Provides Insight in Law360 on the Recent Green vs. University of Mississippi Race Bias Ruling

Constangy attorney and chief legal editor Robin Shea authored an article for Law360 analyzing the recent Green vs. University of Mississippi race bias ruling. 

Green, a Black employee, was hired for a university intervention specialist role but was later terminated during her probationary period after complaints and an uninvestigated allegation, despite evidence that her supervisor has expressed a preference for hiring a white man. She sued for race discrimination, arguing that her firing — along with her supervisor’s expressed preference for a white man, the hiring of a white male director with supervisory authority over her, and the lack of investigation into the allegations — supported claims of discriminatory treatment. The court denied the university’s motion for summary judgment, concluding that a jury must decide whether Green’s termination was motivated by race or legitimate reasons.  

The decision provided key lessons for employers. Robin advised employers to avoid discriminatory comments, provide consistent and clear reasons for termination, properly investigate allegations before actions, and not rely solely on the “good faith honest belief” defense without conducting due diligence.  

To view the full article on Law360's website, click here. 

Robin is the Chief Legal Editor of Constangy’s legal publications and plays a leading role in shaping the firm’s voice on employment law developments. She oversees the firm’s legal bulletins and four widely followed law blogs—EEO Compliance Dispatch, California Snapshot, Cyber Advisor, and Employment & Labor Insider. Through her writing and editorial leadership, Robin helps ensure that clients stay informed and prepared for changes in this area of the law.