Full Breakdown
Kenni Burns Sues Kent State for Wrongful Termination
4/1/2026, 12:53:22 PM
Allegations of Conspiracy and Financial Misconduct
Former Kent State football coach Kenni Burns has initiated a lawsuit against Kent State University and several officials, including President Todd Diacon and Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration Mark Polatajko, for wrongful termination, breach of contract, and defamation. Burns claims that his firing in April 2025 was part of a "malicious scheme" to save the university money. He was dismissed shortly after being placed on administrative leave due to alleged violations related to his university-issued purchasing card (P-card) and a loan from a university booster, Mike Awad.
Burns contends that he was never properly trained in the use of the P-card and asserts that he provided receipts for expenses that were later questioned in an audit. He also claims to have reimbursed the university over $7,000 for disputed charges. His lawsuit highlights financial difficulties he faced while coaching, including a temporary relocation due to flooding and alleged underpayment of his salary by the university.
Contractual Disputes and Amendments
The lawsuit details a contentious contract amendment made in early 2024, which altered the terms of Burns' payout if terminated without cause. Originally, he would have received approximately $2 million, but the amendment reduced this to about $371,000. Burns alleges that his agent was not informed of this change, and when he sought clarification from Athletic Director Randale Richmond, he was told the terms would be reverted to the original contract language. However, Richmond later stated that the university would not make any adjustments.
Burns' complaint suggests that this amendment was a deliberate maneuver to facilitate his termination without incurring the financial obligations of his original contract. The lawsuit also claims that while Burns was on leave, David Ochmann, Kent State's deputy general counsel, approached Burns' attorney with an offer of $371,000 to "quietly walk away," which was later rescinded when Burns did not accept the terms.
Investigative Findings and Conflicting Evidence
Kent State's internal investigation into Burns' conduct revealed a loan of $109,000 from Awad, which Burns repaid over 14 months. The investigation noted "conflicting evidence" regarding whether Burns disclosed this arrangement to university officials. While the report found no evidence of a quid pro quo relationship between Burns and Awad, it raised concerns about potential violations of the university's conflict of interest policy.
A Kent State spokesperson stated that the university does not comment on ongoing litigation, leaving the details of the case to unfold in court.
Implications and Next Steps
The lawsuit not only challenges the circumstances surrounding Burns' termination but also raises questions about the university's handling of financial policies and employee relations. As the case progresses, it may shed light on the governance practices at Kent State and the broader implications for collegiate athletics.
