| Subject: Re: NBC 5 Teaser - here's the text |
Author:
Tessa
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Date Posted: 09/ 3/04 7:56pm
In reply to:
Tessa
's message, "NBC 5 Teaser" on 09/ 3/04 5:33pm
Internal CIR Investigation: Kennedy Smith Acted Inappropriately
Former CIR President Defends Sexual Harassment Complainants
POSTED: 7:15 pm CDT September 3, 2004
UPDATED: 7:24 pm CDT September 3, 2004
CHICAGO -- The Center for International Rehabilitation conducted an internal investigation earlier this year after a sexual harassment claim was filed against Dr. William Kennedy Smith.
That complainant filed her claim a year ago and received a financial settlement, which included an agreement that she not speak disparagingly of Kennedy Smith, NBC5's reported. A second woman settled her sexual harassment claim two weeks ago.
Earlier this week, another former employee alleged those complainants were looking for money and throwing themselves at Kennedy Smith, but a former president of the organization disagrees.
"I worked with them very closely," Sue Suter said. "Professionally and personally they have tremendous character and integrity, and I will even add, I never saw either of these women throw themselves at Will."
Hired as president of CIR, Suter left after four months.
"Will and I just had different management styles," she said.
An internal CIR investigation into Kennedy Smith's behavior was completed several months ago, NBC5 learned from several sources. Although Audra Soulias, who filed a lawsuit against Kennedy Smith last week, had tried to report her alleged assault, it is not mentioned in the investigation.
The committee conducting the investigation into the first sexual harassment claim concluded there were no witnesses, creating a he said, she said dilemma. The internal report determined Kennedy Smith acted and communicated inappropriately to employees but did not agree it was sexual harassment.
Both of the women who filed the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission complaints are bound by settlement agreements and have been unable to speak for themselves.
"I worked with both women," Suter said. "I have the utmost respect for them. They are outstanding professionals."
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