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Usher Accused of Pushing UF College Grads Off Stage Suspended

Posted byBy Kiersten Willis | Published on: CommentsComments (0)

The students who were pushed off stage during their graduation at the University of Florida Saturday have at least a little vindication as the usher responsible has been placed on paid administrative leave.

Videos went viral May 5 of what appeared to be mostly Black students repping their respective sororities and fraternities were aggressively pulled off stage while receiving their degrees.

“The lasting impression — at least for undergrad — will be them watching their son having his back turned toward the audience being handled like a savage animal,” Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity member Oliver Telusma told “Good Morning America” Monday, May 7.

Now, the faculty member who was a marshal at the ceremony is on paid leave pending a review of appropriate administrative actions.

The decision follows UF president W. Kent Fuchs tweeting an apology Sunday, May 6.

“During one of this weekend’s commencement ceremonies, we were inappropriately aggressive in rushing students across the stage,” Fuchs said. “I personally apologize and am reaching out to the students involved. The practice has been halted for all future ceremonies, and we will work to make sure all graduating students know we are proud of their achievements and celebrate with them their graduation.”

https://twitter.com/PresidentFuchs/status/993106209766105088

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