A former employee of Michigan State University (MSU) has filed a lawsuit against the university, alleging discrimination based on race, national origin, and age. Zhongxiao Michael Chen, a former regional quality assurance director in MSU’s IR-4 Project, claims that he was unjustly terminated in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Chen’s responsibilities included monitoring and reviewing data and reports to ensure compliance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards. After reporting data manipulation, Chen alleges that management began holding ‘secret meetings’ to find a reason to terminate him.

The lawsuit states that Chen’s supervisor discussed potential avenues for terminating him, including professional misconduct, performance reviews, and lack of funding. Despite being cleared of professional misconduct, Chen was accused of providing ‘substandard work’ and hindering the quality assurance department. His position was ultimately terminated, and his responsibilities were assumed by younger, Caucasian employees.

The lawsuit argues that MSU discriminated against Chen on the basis of race, national origin, and age. It highlights the alleged unfair treatment and the replacement of Chen with younger, Caucasian employees in equivalent positions. The case raises concerns about discrimination and wrongful termination within the university.