Tarleton State Univ. prof resigns after hanging from tree with hooks in chest in front of students

[TexasTowelie]

STEPHENVILLE — A former Tarleton State University professor resigned after a report that he participated in a ritual in which he pierced his pectorals and hung from a tree in the presence of students.

In a statement to Texan News, Dr. Jeff Justice acknowledged that he “attempted to harm myself in the presence of students. While I do not recall what initiated such action, I do know this incident was caused by the accumulation of events in my life that resulted in me entering a state of severe depression.

“As the result of those ongoing events in my life, I made the decision to resign from my position at Tarleton State University,” he said. “Such decision was made after diligent reflection of myself and upon the advice of my doctor.” To read the full statement, click here.

Tarleton spokesperson Cecilia Jacobs said in a written statement: “Tarleton’s highest priority is the welfare of our students. This is a personnel matter regarding a former faculty member, and the university has no further comment at this time.”

Read more: http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/article/Texas-professor-resigns-after-hanging-from-tree-6578204.php

[delrem]

1. I think he saw a movie.

I remember the scene in the movie, some white guy suspended by hooks as initiation ritual to the band of "indians", in one of those US cowboy myth plots.

[ret5hd]

2. A Man Called Horse

[Human101948]

3. Was it a course in movie appreciation?

It would have been totally appropriate in that case.

[DhhD]

4. Doesn't add up. A man in need of healthcare resigns his healthcare benefits, through his job.

Where was the employer's, Human Resources? Who will now provide care to professor and safety to the public? Will employer instead of health insurance, take care of his healthcare cost?

[Paladin]

5. Jeez, Tarleton State has gone weird on us.

It used to be referred to as "Cowboy U.," back in the day. I knew a guy who got his undergrad degree there; he said the two strangest days of the year were when, without evident announcement or signal, the student body went from wearing straw cowboy hats to felt cowboy hats in Autumn (and vice versa in Spring)......