Hennepin Technical College president resigns amid workplace misconduct allegations

The president of Hennepin Technical College (HTC) resigned Sunday following accusations that he belittled and verbally abused employees.

In a letter sent to the college community Monday, Merrill Irving, Jr., announced his immediate resignation, calling his decision “extremely difficult.”

“This past week I realized the longer I stay in my role as president of HTC the more of a distraction it is to our college community. The driving force for the attention HTC receives should be the success of our diverse student body, our strong industry partnerships that sustain the local economy and the good people who work diligently for the institution’s continued achievement,” Irving’s letter — which didn’t address any of the allegations made against him — said in part.

Faculty and staff also received an email Monday from Minnesota State Chancellor Devinder Malhotra that stated HTC Vice President of Student Affairs Jessica Lauritsen would be the school’s acting president until interim and permanent presidents are selected.

“I express my deepest regrets that Hennepin Technical College wasn’t always a respectful place to work. I’ve heard from you about the hurt, frustration, and pain it has caused, and for that I’m truly sorry,” Malhotra said in the letter. He added that he plans to attend HTC workshop days on March 8 “to listen and learn, and develop a shared understanding of the additional steps that need to be taken to move towards an inclusive and empowered ethos.”

Irving had been HTC’s president since July 1, 2015.