USD Professor Michael Hook Subject of Student Petition Following Termination

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Northeast Radio SD News - Vermillion, SD - A group of students at the University of South Dakota has launched an online petition calling for the reinstatement of art professor Michael Hook, following his placement on administrative leave and the Board of Regents' intent to terminate his employment.

The action follows a social media post by Hook concerning the death of Charlie Kirk, which South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden and House Speaker Jon Hansen publicly criticized. Both officials posted on X, with Hansen calling for Hook’s firing and Rhoden stating he was “shaking mad” and “glad” about the Board of Regents' decision to terminate.

According to the petition, students are "distraught" by the situation, describing Hook as a compassionate educator who fostered a comfortable learning environment.

The petition, which USD student Percy Goeden started, argues that the termination infringes on Hook's First Amendment rights to freedom of speech. The petition states, "This gives our campus the idea that we are not allowed to use our right to the Freedom of Speech."

The Board of Regents' statement indicates that its intent to terminate aligns with its policy 4.4.8, which addresses faculty remediation.

As of the latest reports, the petition has gathered more than 2,300 signatures.