OSU removes Cascades Chancellor Sherman Bloomer amid ongoing investigation
The Dean and Chancellor has currently not been found of any wrongdoing or misconduct. The complaint remains an allegation.
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon State University has removed Sherman Bloomer from his role as chancellor and dean of OSU-Cascades, according to a message sent to university staff by Provost and Executive Vice President Roy Haggerty.
In the message obtained by KTVZ News, Haggerty said the decision follows new information uncovered during an ongoing investigation led by OSU’s Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. The investigation began after a complaint was filed March 18 with the university’s Office of Audit, Risk and Compliance and is being conducted by an outside team.
KTVZ News was the first to break the story on Sherman's removal. We're actively trying to learn more as to why.
University officials say the investigation remains active, and they are limiting public comment to protect the integrity of the process and the privacy of those involved.
Investigation and university policies
Haggerty emphasized that OSU employees are expected to uphold high ethical standards and comply with all laws and university policies. The university encourages reporting of suspected wrongdoing, policy violations, or ethical concerns.
OSU provides multiple reporting avenues, including its Integrity and Accountability Hotline, which allows confidential or anonymous reports online or by phone.
Most university employees are classified as “Responsible Employees,” meaning they are required to report potential violations related to sexual misconduct, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation when they become aware of them.
The university also reiterated that retaliation against individuals who report concerns in good faith is strictly prohibited.
Haggerty noted that investigations of this nature take time and typically involve interviews with relevant parties and the collection of evidence. Outcomes may remain confidential due to privacy laws.
Support resources offered
OSU says support services are available for students and employees affected by the situation. Student resources include mental health and well-being services, while employees and their dependents can access confidential support through Lyra Mental Health Benefits, which offers 24/7 assistance.
Dr. Becky Johnson will continue serving as interim chancellor and dean of OSU-Cascades during the transition.
Haggerty expressed appreciation for Johnson’s leadership and for the OSU-Cascades team as the university continues its operations in Central Oregon.
Background on Sherman Bloomer
Sherman Bloomer had served as the chancellor and dean of OSU-Cascades, Oregon State University’s growing branch campus in Bend. He was appointed to the role in 2023, succeeding longtime leader Becky Johnson.
Before Oregon State he held faculty positions at Boston University and Duke University. His background includes experience in academic administration, rural higher education, and efforts to expand access to college in underserved communities.
At OSU-Cascades, Bloomer oversaw continued campus expansion and academic program development as the Bend campus grew in enrollment and infrastructure.
The university has not released details about the nature of the complaint or the findings to date, citing the ongoing investigation.
