Univ. of Minnesota athletic fundraiser inappropriately touched, hugged female employee

A high-profile University of Minnesota athletic official in charge of Gophers fundraising violated the school's sexual harassment policy by repeatedly hugging, touching and making inappropriate comments to a female employee, according to a confidential report obtained by KSTP-TV.

Associate Athletic Director Randy Handel was placed on paid leave last week but university officials refused to release any details surrounding the action. A university spokesman reiterated Wednesday that the investigation is a private personnel matter, and the U cannot discuss any details while the process plays out. He said Handel remains on leave.

According to KSTP-TV, the woman told investigators Handel had hugged or touched her more than 40 times over the course of a year and it often occurred behind closed doors. She accused Handel of touching her face, neck and upper chest.

At one point, the woman told Handel she was "not comfortable hugging," according to the report. Another time, she told Handel that touching her back to remove fuzz was inappropriate. She also once asked if the door needed to be closed but did not have the courage to ask the question repeatedly.

Read more: http://www.startribune.com/report-u-athletic-fundraiser-inappropriately-touched-hugged-female-employee/422796934/