December 28, 2023

UW-LaCrosse Chancellor Fired After Appearing in Adult Videos

By Josh Moody

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Chancellor Joe Gow was fired Wednesday for appearing with his wife in pornographic content on at least two websites, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. ... A statement from the UW System Board of Regents noted that the decision to fire Gow as chancellor was unanimous but did not address his appearance in the videos, referring to the matter only in vague terms.

“Upon my recommendation, the UW Board of Regents today terminated Dr. Joe Gow from his position as chancellor of UW-La Crosse effective immediately. In recent days, we learned of specific conduct by Dr. Gow that has subjected the university to significant reputational harm,” UW System President Jay Rothman said in the statement. “His actions were abhorrent.”

{snip}

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that Gow and his wife, Carmen Wilson, appeared in videos on several pornographic sites and that they had published two books, under pseudonyms, detailing their experiences in creating adult content. In an interview with the newspaper, Gow said his actions were consensual and protected by the First Amendment.

He also questioned whether he was given due process as part of his termination as chancellor, though he will return to the faculty. In August, Gow announced plans to step down at the end of the academic year after leading La Crosse for 17 years.

{snip}