EXCLUSIVE: OSU-Cascades Chancellor Sherman Bloomer under investigation, accused of alleged sexual misconduct involving students, according to sources and documents
Editor's Note: The Dean and Chancellor has currently not been found of any wrongdoing or misconduct. The complaint remains an allegation.
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Sources and documents uncovered by KTVZ News appear to show that Sherman Bloomer, the dean and chancellor of Oregon State University-Cascades, is under investigation for alleged inappropriate sexual conduct involving students.
KTVZ News was the first to report that Bloomer had been put on leave after the University discovered new information during its internal investigation. They would not specify what type of leave Bloomer was on saying, "The university generally does not comment on OSU employee leave."
Documents and sources claim
One source provided supporting documents that allegedly include payments made for sex, as well as what is described as Bloomer’s profile on adult websites “Seeking Arrangements” and “Secret Affairs.” The documents also include messages from those platforms and text message exchanges.
KTVZ News agreed to protect the identity of the source due to the nature of the allegations. The source, who was a former student at the university, claims she was paid to be in a multi-year sexual relationship with Bloomer.
That source, along with another individual who claims to have known Bloomer for years, said Bloomer was aware he was paying students for sex.
Bloomer’s background and response
Bloomer was appointed dean of the OSU-Cascades campus in 2023 after working for nearly 30 years at the Corvallis campus. His profile has already been scrubbed from the University's website.
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.
KTVZ News has reached out to Bloomer directly, leaving two emails, two voicemails, and two text messages seeking comment; there has been no response.
Campus police declined to say whether there is a criminal investigation, referring questions back to Oregon State University. University officials have also declined further comment despite repeated requests.
University response and ongoing process
The investigation comes after Oregon State University confirmed Bloomer’s removal from his role, citing new information uncovered during an ongoing investigation led by the university’s Office of Equal Opportunity and Access.
The investigation began following a complaint filed on March 18 with the Office of Audit, Risk and Compliance and is being conducted by an outside team. University officials say 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.
Interim leadership and next steps
Becky Johnson is currently serving as interim dean at the Cascades campus. She previously served as dean of the campus for nearly 12 years.
University officials say they are not allowing public comment in order to protect both the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of those involved. The Office of Equal Opportunity and Access is offering counseling, support, and resources.
A meeting related to the investigation is scheduled for next week, though it is unclear when the investigation will conclude.
This is a breaking news story. Stay with KTVZ News for urgent updates.
Assistant News Director Harley Coldiron can be reached at: harley.coldiron@ktvz.com or 541-617-6231
