OSU-Cascades Chief Ousted Amid Ongoing Investigation

Chancellor and dean Sherman Bloomer removed from role as probe continues into alleged policy or ethics violation

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of a university campus, with warm pools of light and color creating a contemplative, dreamlike atmosphere.The sudden removal of the OSU-Cascades chancellor amid an investigation raises questions about the university's leadership and the nature of the alleged violation.Bend Today

The top administrator at Oregon State University-Cascades, Sherman Bloomer, was removed from his role as chancellor and dean by a top university official after new information surfaced from an ongoing investigation into an alleged policy or ethics violation. The university has declined to provide further details on the investigation, which stems from a March 18 complaint filed with the Office of Audit Risk and Compliance.

Why it matters

The sudden removal of the OSU-Cascades chancellor raises questions about the nature of the alleged violation and the university's handling of sensitive investigations involving senior leadership. As a prominent regional campus, the leadership transition could impact the school's operations and reputation.

The details

Roy Haggerty, provost and vice president with Oregon State University, informed students and staff across all campuses of Bloomer's removal in an April 7 letter, but did not release details of the investigation. The investigation is being led by the Office of Equal Opportunity & Access, which ensures compliance with civil rights laws and policies. Bloomer remains 'on leave' from his faculty position, and the university has declined to say whether he is still being paid.

  • On March 18, a complaint was filed with the Office of Audit Risk and Compliance.
  • On March 23, Bloomer began a leave of absence.
  • On April 7, Haggerty informed the campus community of Bloomer's removal as chancellor and dean.

The players

Sherman Bloomer

The former chancellor and dean of Oregon State University-Cascades, who was removed from his role amid an ongoing investigation into an alleged policy or ethics violation.

Roy Haggerty

The provost and vice president of Oregon State University, who informed the campus community of Bloomer's removal.

Becky Johnson

A longtime university leader who has been appointed as the interim dean for the OSU-Cascades campus.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I ask for patience as investigators continue to work deliberately and expeditiously according to university policies.”

— Roy Haggerty, Provost and Vice President, Oregon State University

“The university generally does not comment further on OSU employee leave.”

— Rob Odom, Vice President of University Relations and Marketing

What’s next

The investigation is ongoing, and the university has said the outcomes may remain confidential due to privacy laws and concerns. It's unclear when the investigation will be completed and if Bloomer will return to his faculty position.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of thorough and impartial investigations into allegations of misconduct, even at the highest levels of university leadership. The transition in campus leadership could impact OSU-Cascades' operations and reputation, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in such sensitive matters.