Full Breakdown
Georgia Southern University settles $250,000 lawsuit alleging retaliation over LGBTQ-support policies
8/28/2026, 12:54:34 AM
Core Event
The state of Georgia, through the Department of Administrative Services, agreed to pay $250,000 to resolve a lawsuit filed by former Georgia Southern University director of student wellness and health promotion Gemma Skuraton. She claimed she was terminated in July 2025 after opposing the university’s decision to reject a proposal for free chest binders and to roll back programs for transgender and nonbinary students. The settlement requires the university to reclassify her termination as a voluntary resignation, remove her termination letter from her personnel file where legally permissible, and provide a neutral reference letter. Skuraton must dismiss the lawsuit within five days of receiving the payment.
Background & Context
In 2024 the university faced criticism for reducing visible LGBTQ+ resources on campus. An open letter from the regional nonprofit Boro Pride accused the school of removing therapy groups, faculty training, medical-treatment information, career resources, pride symbols, and the Lavender Graduation program. Vice president of student affairs Shay Little had previously endorsed a grant to provide free chest binders, a proposal later rejected amid fears of jeopardizing federal funding.
Key Figures & Groups
- Gemma Skuraton – former director of student wellness and health promotion.
- Shay Little – vice president of student affairs, involved in the grant decision.
- Artur Davis – attorney for Skuraton.
- First City Pride Center – Savannah-based LGBTQ+ organization that issued a public statement.
- Boro Pride – regional nonprofit that documented the university’s removals.
Timeline
- April 10-12 2024 – University announced plans to remove most signage, resources and programs affirming LGBTQ+ individuals.
- July 2025 – Skuraton was terminated.
- Late 2025 – She filed a lawsuit alleging First Amendment and Title IX violations.
- Later 2025 – The state settled the lawsuit for $250,000.
Data & Statistics
Official Statements & Responses
Criticism & Opposition
- Boro Pride’s open letter described the actions as an effort to “erase LGBTQ+ student visibility” from campus.
- The First City Pride Center called the university’s steps a “deeply concerning” regression.
On-the-Ground Reports
Students organized protests after the chest-binder grant was rejected, and local media reported heightened scrutiny of the university’s policies.
