In a recent turn of events in Nashville, Dean Masullo, a former teacher at the University School of Nashville (USN), has filed a lawsuit against a former student who accused him of sexual misconduct. According to WSMV, the lawsuit claims that the student's allegations were false and have "ruined his career and reputation."
Masullo's dismissal came in 2024 after an investigation, prompted by the student's claims, led to his termination. His suit, filed last Tuesday, August 19, in Davidson County Circuit Court, aims to seek damages for the alleged defamation, emotional distress, and invasion of privacy he has suffered. The allegations that sparked this chain of events included sexual harassment, sexual assault, and grooming. The student, in her defense, continues to stand by the accounts she provided to USN, as she told The Tennessean.
Masullo's case is hinged on what he describes as a "false narrative" perpetuated by the accuser. He claims the student, who dealt with family issues, initially sought stability from him before turning against him. Meanwhile, USN spokesperson Juanita Traughber released a statement, saying USN was "shocked and saddened" by the lawsuit against the alumna, firmly standing in support of her.
The scandal at USN, which included a student-led walkout and the dismissal of director Amani Reed, has been under public scrutiny since last year. In the lawsuit, Masullo admits to a certain level of closeness with the student, including personal texts and one instance where he provided a "quick, chaste peck on the cheek," as reported by Nashville Scene. However, he strongly contests the more grave allegations and characterizes their relationship in a decidedly different light than has been portrayed previously.
The school has maintained a firm stance throughout this saga following a comprehensive investigation that deemed Masullo's behavior unacceptable. Following his firing, Masullo received a severance package totaling nearly $30,000 with the condition that he not sue the school or its affiliates, a detail highlighted in the report by WSMV. With court proceedings pending, both parties seem locked in a legal battle to clear their respective names.
