Knoxville, Tennessee, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Tamar Shirinian, a faculty member at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, faces termination for a Facebook comment regarding Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist shot recently. The university placed her on administrative leave, stating she failed to meet standards for civil engagement. Her remarks generated backlash, prompting calls for her removal, including support from local politicians. Faculty members have expressed concerns about the implications for free speech and academic freedom as the situation unfolds amidst heightened scrutiny over public expressions by educators.
KNOXVILLE, Tennessee – Tamar Shirinian, a faculty member at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, is facing termination due to a Facebook comment made about Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist who was fatally shot on September 9. The University announced on Monday that Shirinian has been placed on administrative leave and that termination proceedings have begun against her.
UT Knoxville’s statement indicated that Shirinian “failed to meet our expectations for civil engagement” and that she has been removed from the classroom. In her Facebook comment, Shirinian stated that the world is “better off” without Charlie Kirk and referred to his wife in derogatory terms, heavily criticizing Kirk and his family.
Her remarks gained widespread attention and backlash on social media, with many calling for the university to take action against her. A campaign began that encouraged people to email UT authorities advocating for Shirinian’s removal. Republican Congressman Tim Burchett of Tennessee stated on social media that he would push for Shirinian’s removal.
The university released a statement denouncing Shirinian’s comments, emphasizing that they do not reflect the university’s values and asserting their responsibility to provide a healthy educational environment. Chancellor Donde Plowman faced criticism during a Faculty Senate meeting regarding her decision to suspend and pursue terminating Shirinian, with faculty members defending Shirinian as a brilliant scholar and advocating for free speech.
Plowman cited that Shirinian violated the faculty code of conduct and that her actions damaged the public’s trust in the university. Shirinian received written notice of the charges against her and has the option to request a hearing by a special committee if she is fired. Faculty members expressed concern over how political pressure may impact free speech and academic freedom at the institution, referencing historical instances where faculty were not disciplined for controversial statements.
Plowman affirmed that Shirinian’s comment was not protected by academic freedom and that it did not reflect civil discourse. Various faculty members in the meeting voiced apprehensions regarding the political climate and the impact it has on academic ideals and free expression. Shirinian’s Facebook comments drew national attention after they were shared by conservative activist Robby Starbuck, effectively amplifying calls for her removal.
The university reinstated its commitment to free speech and the need for civil discourse in light of ongoing political tension and scrutiny on academic environments.
Key Details:
- University of Tennessee Knoxville moved to terminate Professor Tamar Shirinian.
- Shirinian’s comments about the death of Charlie Kirk ignited controversy.
- Chancellor Donde Plowman cited violations of faculty code of conduct.
- Faculty members voiced concerns about free speech implications.
- A campaign urged university authorities for Shirinian’s removal, supported by Congressman Burchett.
Conclusion:
The situation surrounding Shirinian’s comments has generated significant discussion about the boundaries of free speech within academic environments and the potential consequences of public scrutiny on faculty members.
FAQ
- What prompted the University of Tennessee Knoxville to consider terminating Professor Tamar Shirinian?
- Shirinian is facing termination due to a Facebook comment made about Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist who was fatally shot on September 9.
- What was the nature of Shirinian’s comments on Facebook?
- Shirinian stated that the world is “better off” without Charlie Kirk and referred to his wife in derogatory terms, heavily criticizing Kirk and his family.
- What actions did the University take in response to Shirinian’s comments?
- The University placed Shirinian on administrative leave and initiated termination proceedings against her.
- How did faculty members respond to the situation during the Faculty Senate meeting?
- Faculty members defended Shirinian as a brilliant scholar and expressed concerns regarding the impact of political pressure on free speech and academic freedom.
Key Features of the Article:
- Case involving Tamar Shirinian and her comments on Charlie Kirk’s death.
- University’s efforts to address civil engagement standards.
- Faculty response and concerns about academic freedoms.
- Nationwide attention and implications for free speech in academia.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Disciplinary Actions Taken Against UT Knoxville Professor
University of Tennessee Students Honor Charlie Kirk with Mural
University of Tennessee Suspends Professor Over Inflammatory Remarks
University of Tennessee Suspends Professor Over Controversial Comments
Additional Resources
- WATE: UTK Professor Responds After Being Suspended Over Charlie Kirk Comments
- Knox News: Can the University of Tennessee Fire a Professor Over Charlie Kirk Comments?
- Local 3 News: University of Tennessee Fires Professor Who Endorsed Violence and Murder
- Hindustan Times: Who is Tamar Shirinian Fired Over Charlie Kirk Comment?
- Wikipedia: Free Speech in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
