Page 1 of 114

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA

CHRISTINA MARIE MCLAUGHLIN

Plaintiff,

-V.- Case: 1:20cv22942

FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

BOARD OF TRUSTEES;

CLAUDIA PUIG, Chair of FIU Board of Trustees,

In her official capacity;

MARK B. ROSENBERG, President of Florida International 

University- In his official capacity;

R. ALEX ACOSTA, Dean of the FIU College of Law 2009-2017,

In his official capacity;

TAWIA BAIDOE ANSAH, Interim Dean FIU Law 2017,

In his official capacity;

JOYCELYN BROWN, FIU Adjunct Professor of Law 2016-2017,

In her official capacity;

HOWARD WASSERMAN, FIU Professor of Law,

In his official capacity and personally;

ROSARIO L. SCHRIER aka Lozada, FIU Professor of Law,

In her official capacity;

THOMAS E. BAKER, FIU Professor of Law,

In his official capacity;

SCOTT F. NORBERG, FIU Professor of Law,

In his official capacity;

NOAH WEISBORD; FIU Associate Professor of Law 2016-2017,

In his official capacity;

MARCI ROSENTHAL, Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs,

In her official capacity;

THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS FOR THE STATE

UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF FLORIDA;

NED C. LAUDENBACH, Chair of Florida Board of Governors of

State University System, In his official capacity;

IRIS ELIJAH, Assistant Counsel Florida Board of Governor,

In her official capacity;

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION;

ELISABETH D. DEVOS, Secretary U.S. Dept. of Education,

In her official capacity;

Defendants.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 1 of 114
Page 2 of 114

VERIFIED COMPLAINT FOR INJUNCTIVE AND DECLARATORY RELIEF, 

MONETARY DAMAGES, AND ATTORNEY’S FEES AND COSTS

DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL 

“Today’s students, who are being propagandized by hard left teachers to diminish the 

importance of due process, are our future leaders, - that’s my biggest concern.” Professor Alan 

Dershowitz, Life, Liberty and Levin, aired Fox News, December 8, 2019, Television.

Plaintiff, Christina M. McLaughlin, (hereinafter referred to as “Ms. McLaughlin” or 

“Plaintiff”), by and through her undersigned counsel, brings this verified complaint against the 

Defendants, FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY, et.al. and alleges claims for 1. 

Unconstitutional infringement of the fundamental right to freedom of speech and political 

expression and hostile educational environment; 2. Infringement of substantive and procedural 

due process of a property interest in her graduate law school education and liberty interest in her 

good name and reputation; 3. Violation of equal protection; 4. U.S. Department of Education’s 

Breach of Legal Obligation to enforce Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (hereinafter 

known as “FERPA”); 5. Violation of Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA rights pursuant to Fla. Stat. 

1002.225; 6. Denial of Plaintiff’s assistance of counsel; 7. Fraud; 8. Civil Conspiracy; 9. Breach 

of Fiduciary duty; 10. Negligence; 11. Defamation and False Light.

INTRODUCTION AND SUMMARY OF THE CASE

PART 1-FIU Law

1. On or about Fall 2016 through Spring 2017, the State of Florida through Florida 

International University-governing university (hereinafter known as “FIU”) and its FIU 

College of Law (hereinafter known as “FIU Law”) systemically and systematically targeted 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 2 of 114
Page 3 of 114

the Plaintiff, Ms. Christina McLaughlin, a first year law student, for academic expulsion 

because she openly supported and volunteered for the Republican party, conservative 

candidates for local elections, and then candidate President Donald J. Trump. Since Fall 

2016, FIU Law professors routinely used their classrooms for anti-Trump propaganda and 

created a hostile educational environment for conservative students. In early 2017, FIU

sanctioned protests against the “Muslim Ban.” Before and after President Trump’s 

inauguration, law professors routinely expressed vitriol and hostility toward President 

Trump’s supporters. FIU Law professors used their classroom to indoctrinate, and influence 

the 2016 Presidential election. Ms. McLaughlin felt threatened, intimidated and unsafe in 

FIU classrooms and on campus. Because of the hostile educational environment, Ms. 

McLaughlin never demonstrated her political beliefs on campus and felt stifled to even wear 

a “Trump/Pence” shirt. The facts will show that routine use of the classroom for 

indoctrination was severe and pervasive. The hostile educational environment limited Ms. 

McLaughlin’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program. FIU Law 

became aware of her political affiliation through Ms. McLaughlin’s extensive social media

posts. FIU Law professors and administration retaliated against Ms. McLaughlin, as a 

surrogate for the Trump administration by ostracizing her as a student; refusing to answer 

questions or provide any support; using non-academic grading standards; fraudulently 

tampering with exam Scantron scores; failing to use anonymous grading and “unblinding”

the plaintiff’s final exams and grades to fraudulently “bump down” grades. FIU Law 

professors and administrators took these actions purposely and maliciously to fraudulently 

manufacture a Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) that would cause the Plaintiff’s academic 

dismissal. FIU Law attempted to deny Ms. McLaughlin a law school education because she 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 3 of 114
Page 4 of 114

represented the embodiment of all things “Trump.” FIU Law engaged in a deliberate, 

systemic effort to socially, politically and legally engineer a more left-leaning student body 

and graduate future leftist lawyers, judges, and legislators. FIU Law professors 

predetermined that Ms. McLaughlin would become a conservative lawyer that would likely 

support President Trump and the Republican Party in future elections. Thus, FIU Law jerryrigged an academic dismissal.

2. Ms. McLaughlin has a Fourteenth Amendment liberty interest in her reputation and good 

name which FIU Law infringed upon when they unconstitutionally academically dismissed 

Ms. McLaughlin.

3. Ms. McLaughlin, a matriculated law school student, has a property interest in her graduate 

law school education. See Barnes v. Zaccari, 669 F.3d 1295 (11th Cir. 2012).

4. FIU’s academic dismissal holds out to the public that Ms. McLaughlin does not have the 

capacity to manage a law school education and successfully graduate from an accredited law 

school pursuant to American Bar Association (ABA) Section 308 and 501(c).

5. In December 2019, Ms. McLaughlin was conferred a juris doctor degree from a different

ABA accredited law school. See Exhibit #1.

6. FIU’s academic dismissal is, therefore, defamatory on its face because she successfully 

completed an law school education and graduated from an ABA accredited law school.

7. Ms. McLaughlin’s academic dismissal was FIU Law’s first communication with the Plaintiff 

concerning academic standing.

8. Ms. McLaughlin never failed any course at FIU Law. See Exhibit # 2.

9. Ms. McLaughlin never received a failing grade on any interim exam or assignment.

10. FIU Law never placed Ms. McLaughlin on academic probation.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 4 of 114
Page 5 of 114

11. FIU Law never placed Ms. McLaughlin in remedial courses or in any remedial program.

12. FIU Law never contacted Ms. McLaughlin about the possibility of academic dismissal prior 

to her actual dismissal.

13. Ms. McLaughlin maintained a GPA of 2.2 throughout her 1L year until the day of her 

academic expulsion on May 19, 2017.

14. FIU Law awarded Ms. McLaughlin all available credits, fifteen (15) for the Fall semester.

15. FIU Law awarded Ms. McLaughlin all available credits, sixteen (16) for the Spring semester.

16. Ms. McLaughlin, shockingly, received the notice of the deficient GPA and academic 

expulsion simultaneously, without notice or warning causing her severe emotional and 

mental distress. See Exhibit # 3.

17. On May 23, 2017, FIU Law gave Ms. McLaughlin only seven (7) days to challenge her 

academic dismissal with no opportunity to access her educational records; with a strong 

presumption against readmission, the burden shift transferred to the student to produce clear 

and convincing evidence of readmission; in effect an entire inequitable scheme meant to be 

insurmountable by any student placed in this predicament. See Exhibit #4.

18. FIU Law’s sudden and final academic dismissal is “beyond the pale of reasoned academic 

decision-making when viewed against the background of [her] entire career” at FIU Law. 

Regents of University of Michigan v. Ewing, 474 U. S. 214, 228 (1985).

19. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that the final GPA of 1.98, generated on the day of her academic 

expulsion, was fraudulently manufactured by the defendant professors and administration to 

produce an academic dismissal by 0.02 points below the required 2.0 for promotion.

20. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that her expulsion was arbitrary and capricious.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 5 of 114
Page 6 of 114

21. Ms. McLaughlin claims that FIU Law is liable because academic dismissals can be enjoined 

if those dismissals are shown to be clearly arbitrary and capricious. See Board of Curators of 

University of Missouri v. Horowitz, 435 U.S. 78, 91 (1978).

22. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that FIU Law’s conduct is in violation of the holding in Ewingito 

the extent that University’s academic dismissals must use accepted standards of professional 

judgment and may not substantial deviate from accepted academic norms. See Ewing, 474 

U.S. at 225. 

23. FIU Law Regulations are inconsistent with the standard of all other Florida law schools’ 

academic dismissal policies. See Exhibit #5.

24. FIU violated Ms. McLaughlin’s right to substantive and procedural due process because FIU 

Law’s Academic Policies and Regulations (hereinafter known as “FIU Law Regulations”) 

codified an unconstitutional academic expulsion scheme that permitted a final expulsion 

without notice. See Exhibit #6.

25. FIU’s academic dismissal was final and FIU Law Regulations only permits a petition for 

readmission. See Exhibit # 6 – Paragraph #1601.

26. FIU Law does not permit any appeals or hearings to determine the legitimacy of expulsion 

before the expulsion is final. See Id.

27. Additionally, the petition for readmission has a stated strong presumption against 

readmission; a stated burden of proof of “clear and convincing” evidence of readmission; has 

no opportunity for any discovery; transferred the readmission’s burden of proof to the 

student; conducted a biased readmission hearing; and denied the assistance of counsel. See 

Exhibit #6- Paragragh #1602.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 6 of 114
Page 7 of 114

28. The readmission decision was assigned to the offending professors with a conflict of interest

and inherent bias.

29. FIU Law failed to provide a neutral decision-maker.

30. The offending professors, particularly Prof. Wasserman, subjected Ms. McLaughlin to a 

hostile and emotionally harmful hearing.

31. Clearly, FIU Law’s Regulations are not meant to evoke an exchange of fluid communications

that diminishes the chances of an injustice being perpetrated.

32. Ms. McLaughlin challenged her expulsion on two grounds: 1. the academic dismissal was 

procedurally unfair because FIU Law never provided any notice and treated other students in 

her circumstances disparately; 2. At least one law professor used non-academic standards for 

grading. See Exhibit #7. 

33. On May 31, 2017, FIU Law conducted Ms. McLaughlin’s readmission hearing without 

reviewing her educational records for inaccuracies or miscalculations.

34. On June 2, 2017, FIU Law denied Ms. McLaughlin’s request for readmission without 

investigation or consideration of Ms. McLaughlin’s allegation of inaccurate grading and 

without any finding of fact. See Exhibit #8.

35. In fact, the Academic Standards Committee (ASC) Chair, Prof. Wasserman stated that the 

ASC had “no jurisdiction to review grades.”

36. FIU Law Regulations were purposely designed by unscrupulous law professors who used 

their expert legal knowledge to disadvantage and purposely infringe the constitutional rights 

of law students who incur the displeasure of FIU law professors. In this case, Ms. 

McLaughlin’s expulsion was a means to politically retaliate and engineer a leftist law school 

class.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 7 of 114
Page 8 of 114

37. Many of these same unscrupulous law professors and deans oversaw and failed to supervise a 

hostile educational environment which inhibited Ms. McLaughlin’s freedom of political 

expression and denied her education.

38. FIU Law permitted multiple ethical violations of inappropriate sexual encounters between 

professors and students during the 2016-2017 1L year.

39. FIU Law publicly held Ms. McLaughlin as a “student that will be unable to successfully 

complete the curriculum” in their letter to another law school. See Exhibit #9.

40. The handling of Ms. McLaughlin’s expulsion should shock the conscience of the Court, 

especially since the violations of fundamental rights were perpetrated at the hands of the very 

guardians of juris prudence i.e. FIU College of Law.

PART 2

41. Subsequently, from June 2017 through September 2017, Ms. McLaughlin, properly and 

timely, disputed and challenged her academic dismissal and alleged that her educational 

records were inaccurate and misleading: the challenge was sent directly to FIU’s governing 

university and its agents Ms. Carbajal- General Counsel and directly to FIU President 

Rosenberg. In response, FIU took several unlawful actions intended to conceal and cover-up 

FIU Law’s felonious acts. FIU weaponized FERPA to block access to educational records 

and deny her right to a FERPA hearing. FIU failed to properly and transparently investigate 

or review any of Ms. McLaughlin’s grades or allegations. FIU repeatedly stalled and 

obfuscated any good faith effort to determine the facts in this case.

42. FIU callously dismissed Ms. McLaughlin and tried to end her law career without undertaking 

a careful and deliberate review of her academic performance.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 8 of 114
Page 9 of 114

43. Ms. McLaughlin challenged the accuracy of her educational records and grades directly to 

FIU President Rosenberg. See Exhibit #10.

44. FIU, through its agent Isis Carbajal (General Counsel), admits to reviewing only one final 

grade (LSV II) for computational error. See Exhibit #11.

45. Thereby, FIU admits that they failed to review all of Ms. McLaughlin’s grades for 

computational inaccuracies.

46. Furthermore, FIU’s review of only one grade was performed after her dismissal was final.

47. Therefore, the review of the grade for computational error had no bearing at all in the final 

expulsion.

48. FIU had a duty to determine the accuracy or rationale for the poor academic performance

especially given that Ms. McLaughlin was never in remedial or notified of poor academic 

performance before Ms. McLaughlin was actually expelled.

49. FIU claims that Ms. McLaughlin was afforded sufficient “due process” because she was “1. 

Notified of her dismissal due to poor academic performance, 2. Given an opportunity to 

appear before the Academic Standards Committee, 3. Notified in writing of the final 

decision.” See Exhibit #12.

50. FIU perpetrates a fraud concerning the standards of “due process” in academic dismissals by 

intentionally omitting material details in FIU Law’s Regulations concerning academic

dismissals.

51. FIU Law’s first and final academic dismissal ended her matriculation and was not a notice of 

poor academic performance before dismissal was actually final.

52. FIU Law never noticed Ms. McLaughlin of poor academic performance and she was never 

allowed an opportunity to remediate or mitigate the academic performance.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 9 of 114
Page 10 of 114

53. FIU Law’s “opportunity to appear before the Academic Standards Committee” was actually a 

Petition for Readmission as a newly matriculated student and not an academic performance 

review appeal and does not satisfy due process requirement.

54. The “Academic Standards Committee” meeting is unlikely to result in a readmission because 

FIU Law Regulation created a “strong presumption against readmission;” requiring 

“compelling and extraordinary circumstances” for readmission; and setting a “clear and 

convincing” standard for readmission.

55. FIU Law’s “writing of the final decision” is a restatement of the first dismissal and is actually 

a denial of readmission.

56. FIU Law never held a fact finding hearing nor made a careful and deliberate decision based 

on a thorough review of all facts and findings prior to the taking of her law school education.

57. FIU perverted the holdings in Ewing and Horowitz by creating “due process” standard so 

distorted and unfair that Ms. McLaughlin’s constitutional right to justice and fair play is 

violated. See Id. at 225; See also Horowitz 435 U.S. at 91.

58. The Court in both Ewing and Horowitz did not intend for educational institutions like FIU 

Law to take such substantial and transformative decision with Ms. McLaughlin’s future 

career and livelihood with such an unfair and biased procedures. See Id.

59. FIU weaponized FERPA law to argue that Ms. McLaughlin is not due a careful and 

deliberate review of her education record for inaccuracies upon an academic dismissal.

60. Additionally, FIU impermissibly used FERPA to infringe Ms. McLaughlin’s vested rights 

granted to students who challenge educational records as misleading or inaccurate in 

opposition to the legislative intent.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 10 of 114
Page 11 of 114

61. FIU ignored Ewing’s holding in dicta that an academic dismissal is reviewable if the 

educational institution applied “bad faith, ill-will or other impermissible ulterior motives.” 

Ewing, 474 U. S. at 220.

62. Thereby, FIU, through its Board of Trustees, President Rosenberg, law professors and 

administration violated Ms. McLaughlin’s Constitutional Rights to procedural and 

substantive due process property rights in her law school education; infringed her freedom of 

political expression through discrimination based on her political beliefs; weaponized 

FERPA to cover-up malfeasance; attempted to unlawfully deprive Ms. McLaughlin of her 

career aspirations; created a hostile and biased educational environment and defamed her 

good name and reputation.

PART 3- Florida Board Of Governors and Iris Elijah

63. Florida, through its State University System Board of Governors, (FBG) violated Ms. 

McLaughlin’s rights to freedom of expression, due process; equal protection under color of 

law, and violated FERPA law by failing to properly and neutrally investigate her complaint.

64. FBG is vested with all authority for FIU and is responsible for the adoption and authorization 

of all policies and regulations and provide oversight of all FIU agents and employees.

65. On December 4, 2017, the FBG received Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint. See Exhibit #13.

66. Ms. McLaughlin mailed the identical complaint to multiple agencies at the same time.

67. The FBG appointed Ms. Iris Elijah to process and investigate Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint 

despite the fact that she had a substantial and material conflict of interest with this case. See 

Exhibit #14. 

68. Ms. Elijah is a former and recent FIU Law graduate and worked for FIU’s General Counsel’s 

office a few months prior. See Exhibit #15.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 11 of 114
Page 12 of 114

69. Ms. Elijah is personal friends with FIU’s General Counsel, Isis Carbajal.

70. Concurrently, Ms. Elijah was featured on FIU website which highlighted her close 

relationship with FIU. See Id.

71. Ms. Elijah was re-employed as FIU’s Assistant General Counsel shortly thereafter.

72. On December 11, 2017, Ms. McLaughlin objected to Ms. Elijah’s participation or control of 

the complaint’s investigation because of probable bias and possible conflict of interest. See 

Exhibit #16.

73. FBG did not answer Ms. McLaughlin’s objection.

74. The FBG never reached out or communicated with Ms. McLaughlin at all except for the final 

determination letter.

75. Ms. Elijah’s excessive intermingling with FIU created a reasonable inference of bias favoring 

FIU.

76. Ms. Elijah knew or should have known to recuse herself from any further participation in this 

complaint.

77. FIU never denied or overtly recused Ms. Elijah from this complaint and Ms. McLaughlin 

alleges that Ms. Elijah directed, determined, coordinated and/or influenced the FBG

response.

78. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Ms. Elijah directed, supervised and possibly authored the FBG 

response.

79. On January 26, 2018, Ms. Rebekah Weeks, Investigation and Audit Specialist of the 

Inspector General’s Office, returned a response to Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint and 

determined that her complaint had no substance without any fact finding. See Exhibit #17.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 12 of 114
Page 13 of 114

80. Plaintiff alleges that Ms. Elijah’s bias against Ms. McLaughlin was, at least in part, the basis 

for the failure to properly investigate and make a proper determination.

81. Ms. Weeks is not an attorney and has no legal authority to make determinations of student 

complaints as a matter of law.

82. The FBG response conducted themselves in a wholly biased manner.

PART 4- Department of Education

83. The deep-state, anti-Trump U. S. Department of Education (DOE) has shown reckless and 

callous indifference to Ms. McLaughlin’s federal rights vested to her under FERPA.

84. On December 4, 2017, the DOE was in receipt of Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA complaint. See 

Exhibit #18.

85. The DOE has failed its statutory obligation to timely investigate and make a determination on 

a notice of investigation.

86. As of the filing of this complaint, the DOE has failed to make any determination on this 

student consumer complaint for more than two years.

87. The DOE has offered no support, guidance or assistance to the student complainant.

88. Contrastingly, the DOE offered FIU a complete blueprint of defenses and answers to Ms. 

McLaughlin’s complaint. See Exhibit #19.

89. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that the DOE is so poisoned and corrupted by anti-Trump deep-state 

swamp operatives that they have intentionally tried to bury and obviate Ms. McLaughlin’s 

complaint.

90. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that FIU exerts undue influence at the DOE through several 

Congressional Representatives which precludes the Department from conducting a neutral 

and fair determination.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 13 of 114
Page 14 of 114

91. Defendants, FIU General Counsel, Isis Carbajal and FIU Law Assistant Dean Marci 

Rosenthal both were former employees at the Department of Education and maintain deep 

and strong connections with the DOE.

92. The DOE has been and continues to be a farcical, toothless agency that exists primarily for 

the purpose of supporting universities in their various unlawful and nefarious acts against 

students and only rarely protect student’s vested rights as an inconvenient burden. 

93. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that if not malicious, then the DOE is negligent for their complete 

failure to fulfill their duty to make a determination after over two years of the complaint’s 

filing date.

94. DOE, through its agents, made numerous assurances that the complaint was a top priority for 

several years in order to stall Ms. McLaughlin from enforcing her legal rights through the 

courts.

95. After two years of stalling and failing to file a findings letter, Ms. McLaughlin alleges that 

the DOE and FIU colluded to infringe her right to seek redress from the courts.

96. The DOE has violated Ms. McLaughlin’s constitutional right to due process under the Fifth 

Amendment because the DOE is a conspiracy participant in denying Ms. McLaughlin her 

property right to her law school education and her liberty interest in her good name and 

reputation.

97. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that the DOE and FIU participated in an either expressed conspiracy 

or implied collusion to deny Ms. McLaughlin her FERPA rights and protect a liberal 

university’s malfeasance.

98. The DOE’s conduct and handling of Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint is so outrageous that it 

should shock the conscience of any reasonable arbiter or jurors of this case.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 14 of 114
Page 15 of 114

99. Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA complaint against FIU was originally intended to enforce her 

right to a fair FERPA hearing and to place an explanatory statement on her educational 

record so that she may resurrect her law career.

100. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that she lost valuable time and incurred additional tuition 

expenses because of the Defendants’ unlawful actions.

101. Ms. McLaughlin lost out on important educational and employment opportunities.

102. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that she has faced a loss of reputation due to the DOE’s failure 

to make a determination in her complaint.

103. Therefore as a consequence of the Defendants’ egregious, outrageous and unlawful

actions, Ms. McLaughlin now seeks monetary damages of TWENTY FIVE MILLION 

DOLLARS ($25,000,000.00) and all equitable and just remedies under law including but not 

limited to punitive damages.

JURISDICTION & VENUE

104. This complaint includes Civil Rights claims that raise federal subject matters pursuant to 

the First, Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of the United States Constitution and the Civil 

Rights Act of 1871 and 42 U.S.C. Sec. 1983.

105. This complaint includes Property Rights Takings claims that raise federal subject matters 

pursuant to the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution.

106. This complaint includes Liberty Rights claims that raise federal subject matters pursuant 

to the First and Fourteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution.

107. This complaint also includes claims that raise civil rights, liberty rights and property 

rights pursuant to the Florida Constitution.

108. The Court has jurisdiction over these claims pursuant to 28 U.S.C. Sec. 1331 and 1343.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 15 of 114
Page 16 of 114

109. The Court has authority to award requested damages and injunctive relief pursuant to 28 

U.S.C. 1343.

110. The Court may award court costs and fees and attorney’s fees pursuant to 42 U.S.C. Sec. 

1988.

111. Venue is proper because the acts occurred in the Southern District of Florida.

112. The Plaintiff verifies that she has exhausted all administrative remedies:

A. Florida Board of Governors determined that Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint had no 

merit as a matter of law without an investigation or findings of fact. See Exhibit #17.

B. Stephanie Leland, Director of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, Florida 

Department of Education never responded to complaint letter.

C. Governor Rick Scott never responded to the complaint on December 4, 2017 and 

follow-up status letter on February 6, 2018.

D. Virginia Foxx, U. S. House of Representative, Chair of the House Education and 

Workforce Committee never responded to complaint correspondence dated April 15, 

2018.

E. Lamar Alexander, U.S. Senate, Chair of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor 

and Pensions never responded to complaint correspondence dated April 15, 2018.

F. U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division denied a review of discrimination 

and harassment claims based on political expression because of lack of jurisdiction.

See Exhibit #20 and #21.

G. U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights denied a review for lack of 

jurisdiction over discrimination claims based of political ideology. See Exhibit #22.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 16 of 114
Page 17 of 114

H. U.S. Department of Education, Family Privacy Compliance Office (FPCO) and now 

known as Student Privacy Policy Office (SPPO) has failed to make a determination 

for more than two (2) years after issuing a Notice of Investigation against FIU on 

May 26, 2018.

113. According to the above responses or failures to respond, no department or agency of 

either Florida or federal government has jurisdiction over the infringement of first 

amendment rights; discrimination, and retaliation based on a student political ideology.

Reservation to Name Additional Defendants and Additional Claims

114. In addition to the entities set forth as Defendants herein, there are likely other parties who 

may well be liable to Plaintiff. Notwithstanding the above statement, the Plaintiff currently 

lacks specific facts to permit Plaintiff to name such person or persons as a party Defendant. 

By not naming such persons or entities at this time, Plaintiff is not waiving her right to 

amend this pleading to add such parties, should the facts warrant adding such parties.

115. In addition to the claims set forth herein, there are likely other claims that may well be 

legally enforceable. Notwithstanding the above statement, Plaintiff currently lacks specific 

facts to permit Plaintiff to name such claims. By not naming such claims or damage at this 

time, Plaintiff is not waiving her right to amend this pleading to add such claims or damages, 

should the facts warrant adding such claims.

STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS

116. Plaintiff’s defamation claim is within the two-year statute of limitations because FIU’s 

defamatory and false representation that Ms. McLaughlin was unlikely to successfully 

graduate from law school, through their unlawful academic dismissal, began to run on the 

date of her law school graduation, December 17, 2019.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 17 of 114
Page 18 of 114

117. Additionally, on May 13, 2018, Mr. Dale King, Director Family Policy Compliance 

Office (hereinafter called FPCO), deterred the Plaintiff’s right to initiate litigation by writing

“It is the policy of the Office [Family Privacy Compliance Office] that if a party commences 

litigation in court involving the subject matter of an alleged FERPA violation, this Office 

would not investigate an alleged violation prior to a decision by the court.” See Exhibit #23.

118. The above stated “policy” is not published or publically known in any way, but it served 

to quell Ms. McLaughlin from filing suit pending a DOE determination.

119. The law commonly requires that in claims involving government statutory compliance

the plaintiff must have exhausted all administration regulatory remedies.

120. The DOE through its agent, Mr. King, created a mutually exclusive, binary decision 

which in effect prevented Ms. McLaughlin from filing suit pending a DOE determination on 

the DOE’s Notice of Investigation.

121. Thereby, the DOE quelled Ms. McLaughlin’s right to file litigation by holding her 

FERPA violations’ investigation hostage through multiple stalling and avoidance tactics for 

more than two years.

122. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that the statute of limitation is tolled on all claims effective May 

13, 2018.

123. On November 20, 2018, the DOE wrote “we are nearing completion, and expect to have a 

response to you shortly.” See Exhibit #24.

124. On April 24, 2019, the DOE again stated, “investigation is still under review by our 

General Counsel’s office, but I did receive word morning that there has been movement on 

the case. I will let you know as soon as we are able to issue the findings letter.” See Exhibit 

#25.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 18 of 114
Page 19 of 114

125. DOE did not communicate again with Ms. McLaughlin until October 9, 2019 when the 

DOE resent all documents relevant to the complaint and requested confirmation that the DOE 

may proceed to a resolution. See Exhibit #26.

126. On October 24, 2019, Ms. McLaughlin responded that the DOE is in possession of all 

relevant information and documents (and was since December 4, 2017) and may proceed to a 

final findings letter. See Exhibit #27.

127. Ms. McLaughlin demanded an immediate determination and issuing of a findings letter.

128. The DOE created reliance that a findings letter would be imminent and would shed light 

upon possible legal claims concerning this matter.

129. Ms. McLaughlin is still waiting for the DOE’s final findings letter after more than two 

years.

130. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that she can no longer permit the DOE to diminish her right of 

access to the courts and the exercise of her Constitutional rights.

131. Additionally, the COVID-19 Pandemic and “Safer at Home” Executive Order delayed the 

filing by approximately four months.

FACTS

Facts: PLAINTIFF

132. Plaintiff, Christina Marie McLaughlin, is a resident of the State of Florida.

133. Plaintiff was a matriculated full-time student at Florida International University College 

of Law from on or about August 2, 2016 thru May 19, 2017.

134. On May 19, 2017, FIU Law academically dismissed Ms. McLaughlin.

135. Ms. McLaughlin was a 1L student in good standing during her entire matriculation.

136. Ms. McLaughlin was awarded upon admission a scholarship of $5,000.00.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 19 of 114
Page 20 of 114

137. Ms. McLaughlin paid FIU Law more than $ 42,000.00 in tuition and fees.

138. Ms. McLaughlin received $58,000.00 in federally guaranteed student loans.

139. FIU Law never provided or notified Ms. McLaughlin of the mandatory financial aid exit 

counseling concerning her student loans.

140. During the Plaintiff’s 1L year, Ms. McLaughlin posted on her Facebook and Twitter 

social media accounts many expressions of support for the Republican party, then candidate 

Donald J. Trump, and subsequently President Trump.

141. During the Plaintiff’s 1L year, Ms. McLaughlin posted photos with prominent 

Republican Party members including then-Governor Rick Scott, Congressman Francis 

Rooney, then-Ambassador John Bolton, and other Republicans on her social media accounts

taken at various fundraising campaign events.

142. On or about the end of October 2016, FIU held a “Hillary Clinton for President” rally. 

143. President Obama was the keynote speaker at that rally.

144. Ms. McLaughlin attended the rally. Ms. McLaughlin did not support Hillary Clinton for 

President and in fact disagreed with most of her platform. But, she felt privileged to have the 

opportunity to witness the sitting president’s (President Obama) oratory skills. Ms. 

McLaughlin respectfully listened to President Obama’s speech and politely clapped, but did 

not demonstrate adulation. Additionally, Ms. McLaughlin had to fend off aggressive 

recruiting by Clinton volunteers seeking donations.

145. It became plainly evident to all the surrounding classmates that Ms. McLaughlin was a 

Donald Trump supporter. Ms. McLaughlin noted an almost immediate difference in attitude 

and behavior from classmates, professors, and FIU administration from that day forward.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 20 of 114
Page 21 of 114

146. FIU Law professors’ attitude became clearly cold, disengaged, non-responsive and at 

times hostile.

147. Plaintiff alleges that FIU Law began an intentional hostile, discriminatory and retaliatory 

campaign against the Plaintiff.

148. The hostile and retaliatory educational environment became progressively worse 

especially after President Trump’s inauguration.

149. Ms. McLaughlin felt threatened and stifled to voice any comments in support of President 

Trump for fear of further retaliatory action especially concerning grades.

150. Ms. McLaughlin felt unsafe to show any expression of her political allegiance such as 

wearing a “Trump/Pence” shirt or hat because of the vitriol expressed by the law professors.

151. However, Plaintiff asserts that she was unaware of any actual unlawful fraudulent 

tampering with grades or use of non-academic standards until after her academic expulsion.

152. It has become evident that fellow Republican students had to hide their political 

affiliations because they felt threatened by FIU Law’s hostility towards Republicans. 

DEFENDANTS

Facts: FIU- BOARD OF TRUSTEE and CLAUDIA PUIG

153. Defendant, Florida International University-Board of Trustees (Board of Trustees) is the 

governing body of a public Florida university corporation established pursuant to the laws of 

Florida. See Article IX, section 7 of the Florida Constitution and section 1000.21, 1000.72, 

and 1004.39 Florida Statutes.

154. Defendants, Claudia Puig, Chair of FIU Board of Trustees, and all members of the Board 

of Trustees were at all times relevant to this complaint, and are the final policymaking 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 21 of 114
Page 22 of 114

authority for the university and are responsible for the adoption and authorization of all 

policies and regulations and provided oversight of all FIU agents and employees.

155. Each member of the Board of Trustees is sued in his or her official capacity.

156. Board of Trustees is responsible for the adoption and authorization of the FIU Law’s 

Academic Policies and Regulations (FIU Law Regulations).

157. Board of Trustees is responsible for FIU, the governing university’s FERPA Regulations.

158. Board of Trustees is responsible for the websites, student handbooks and all other 

publications.

159. Board of Trustees has oversight and authority over all law professors, other employees 

and agents, named in the complaint herein.

160. Board of Trustees has defended, supported, and sanctioned all actions taken by 

professors, deans, employees and agents referred to in this complaint.

161. Board of Trustees’ actions is a severe dereliction of duty.

162. Board of Trustees is sued for infringement of the fundamental right to freedom of 

political expression, violation of Procedural and Substantive Due Process, violation of equal 

protection under color of law, denial of assistance to counsel, violation of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

right pursuant to Florida’s FERPA Stat. 1002.225, civil conspiracy, breach of fiduciary duty, 

negligence and defamation of character.

163. Board of Trustees acts and/or failure to act is the proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

harm.

Facts: PRESIDENT MARK ROSENBERG

164. Defendant, Mark B. Rosenberg, FIU President, is and was at all times relevant to this 

complaint.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 22 of 114
Page 23 of 114

165. On August 17, 2017, President Rosenberg personally received a letter of complaint from 

Ms. McLaughlin concerning her allegations of fraudulent grading and inaccurate and 

misleading educational records.

166. Pres. Rosenberg was aware of the allegations of fraud, tortious academic expulsion, and 

violation of the fundamental right to free speech and political expression and violation of 

Constitutional Right to procedural and substantive due process and hostile educational 

environment.

167. President Rosenberg failed to personally respond to the Plaintiff’s letter of complaint.

168. On August 25, 2017, FIU’s General Counsel (Isis Carbajal) answered on behalf of 

President Rosenberg.

169. President Rosenberg, through his General Counsel, admits to failing to review all of Ms. 

McLaughlin’s final grades for computational errors.

170. President Rosenberg was aware that the issue of inaccuracies and misleading information 

in Ms. McLaughlin’s educational records was still “unsettled.”

171. President Rosenberg disregarded FIU Regulation 108 that states if a FERPA issue is still 

“unsettled” FIU shall refer the issue to a fair and unbiased evidentiary hearing. See Exhibit # 

28.

172. President Rosenberg dismissed Ms. McLaughlin’s request for a FERPA hearing without 

conducting a fair, thorough and unbiased review of the Plaintiff’s allegations.

173. President Rosenberg summarily ended Ms. McLaughlin’s complaints of fraud, 

malfeasance, and hostile educational environment without stating any investigatory findings.

174. President Rosenberg unilaterally converted Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA challenge into a 

student grievance against one professor i.e. Prof. Brown and ignored the FERPA issue.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 23 of 114
Page 24 of 114

175. President Rosenberg flippantly disregarded Ms. McLaughlin’s complaints against, at 

least, four other professors.

176. President Rosenberg never requested a meeting or any other communication with Ms. 

McLaughlin or her counsel.

177. Instead, President Rosenberg “victim shamed” Ms. McLaughlin by stating that it was her 

responsibility to have filed a grievance against Prof. Brown.

178. President Rosenberg also blamed Ms. McLaughlin for not following the proper grievance 

procedure.

179. FIU Law has no stated grievance procedure.

180. President Rosenberg callously tossed Ms. McLaughlin complaint back to offending 

professors and the offending FIU College of Law.

181. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that President Rosenberg committed the above stated acts to 

conceal, divert, and cover-up the felonious acts committed by FIU Law professors.

182. Furthermore, Ms. McLaughlin alleges that President Rosenberg committed a severe 

dereliction of duty.

183. In the alternative, President Rosenberg was at least callous and negligent in the exercise 

of his duties.

184. Pres. Rosenberg is sued in his official capacity for infringement of Plaintiff’s right to 

freedom of political expression, hostile educational environment, violation of Procedural and 

Substantive Due Process, violation of equal protection under color of law, denial of 

assistance to counsel, violation of Ms. McLaughlin’s right pursuant to Florida’s FERPA Stat. 

1002.225, civil conspiracy, breach of fiduciary duty, negligence and defamation of character.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 24 of 114
Page 25 of 114

185. Pres. Rosenberg’s actions and/or failure to act are the proximate cause of Ms. 

McLaughlin’s harm.

Facts: DEAN RENE ALEX ACOSTA

186. Defendant, Rene Alex Acosta (also known as Alex Acosta), Dean of FIU Law is and was 

at all times relevant to this complaint up to his resignation on or about April 2017.

187. Dean Acosta was responsible for the adoption and authorization of all policies and 

regulations and provided oversight of all FIU Law agents and employees.

188. Dean Acosta is responsible for the adoption, authorization and maintenance of FIU Law’s 

Academic Policies and Regulations.

189. Dean Acosta is responsible for the websites, student handbooks, and all other 

publications concerning FIU Law.

190. Dean Acosta had oversight authority over all FIU law professors, other employees, and 

agents named in the complaint herein.

191. Dean Acosta has defended, supported, and sanctioned all actions taken by professors, 

deans, employees, and agents referred to in this complaint.

192. Dean Acosta allowed or had willful blindness to law professors’ creating a hostile 

educational environment without impediment.

193. Dean Acosta allowed or had willful blindness to law professors’ using non-academic 

standards for grading; tampering with scantron tabulation; unauthorized grade unblinding to 

fraudulently mis-recorded grades.

194. Dean Acosta allowed or had willful blindness to law professors having inappropriate 

sexual relations with Plaintiff’s classmates.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 25 of 114
Page 26 of 114

195. Dean Acosta allowed or had willful blindness to systemic discrimination and retaliation 

based on impermissible bias based on political ideology.

196. Dean Acosta’s actions are a severe dereliction of duty.

197. Dean Acosta was negligent in the conduct of his office.

198. Dean Acosta is sued in his official capacity for infringement of the fundamental right to 

freedom of political expression under the U.S. Constitution and Florida Constitution; hostile 

educational environment; violation of substantive and procedural due process; violation of 

equal protection under color of law, breach of fiduciary duty; negligence and defamation of 

character.

199. Dean Acosta’s actions and/or failure to act are the proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

harm.

Facts: DEAN ANSAH

200. Defendant, Dean Tawia Baidoe Ansah, was FIU’s interim Dean of FIU Law in May 2017 

at the time of Ms. McLaughlin’s academic dismissal.

201. Dean Ansah is a well-known out-spoken, anti-conservative, anti-Trump critic.

202. In fact, Dean Ansah signed an anti-Kavanaugh letter protesting Pres. Trump’s selection 

of Judge Brett Kavanaugh for Supreme Court Justice. See Exhibit #29.

203. Dean Ansah was one of 10 FIU Law professors to sign the anti-Trump/anti-Kavanaugh 

letter. 

204. FIU Law had the most leftist law professors of all law schools participating in the protest.

205. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Dean Ansah’s protest letter against Judge Kavanaugh, 

although occurring after Ms. McLaughlin’s expulsion, demonstrates the depth of antiTrump/anti-conservative ideology among Ansah and other FIU Law professors.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 26 of 114
Page 27 of 114

206. Dean Ansah had oversight authority over all FIU law professors, other employees, and 

agents named in the complaint herein.

207. Dean Ansah has defended, supported and sanctioned all actions taken by professors, 

deans, employees, and agents referred to in this complaint.

208. Dean Ansah received several correspondences and emails personally from Plaintiff

concerning the Plaintiff’s academic dismissal. 

209. Dean Ansah failed to substantively respond to Plaintiff’s reasonable attempts to learn 

about the readmission procedure and to have counsel present. See Exhibit #30.

210. Dean Ansah possessed the authority of supervision to prevent or mitigate the claims 

made in Ms. McLaughlin’s Petition for Readmission.

211. Dean Ansah committed a gross dereliction of duty by failing to properly supervise the 

professors, review Ms. McLaughlin’s grade for inaccuracies, and investigate Ms. 

McLaughlin’s allegation of non-academic grading standards in her Petition for Readmission.

212. On June 9, 2017, Dean Ansah letter of standing to another law school depicted Ms. 

McLaughlin as a failed 1L student without any mention of the fact that Ms. McLaughlin had 

not been placed on remediation or ever failed any class. See Exhibit #9.

213. Dean Ansah was aware that Ms. McLaughlin had challenged her GPA in that at least one 

professor (LSV II) had disregarded standard academic norms for grading.

214. FIU Law had not performed any review or investigation as to the accuracy of that grade

at the time of letter.

215. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Dean Ansah purposely depicted Ms. McLaughlin in the 

worse possible light to diminish her chances of continuing her law school education.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 27 of 114
Page 28 of 114

216. Ms. McLaughlin showed callous indifference to Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint of 

inaccurate grading by at least one professor and disregarded Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint of 

due process violations.

217. Dean Ansah is sued in his official capacity for infringement of Plaintiff’s right to freedom 

of political expression, violation of Procedural and Substantive Due Process, violation of 

equal protection under color of law, denial of assistance to counsel, civil conspiracy, breach 

of fiduciary duty, negligence, and defamation of character.

218. Dean Ansah’s actions and/or failure to act are the proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

harm.

Facts: PROFESSOR BROWN

219. Defendant, Joycelyn Brown, was an FIU interim professor of law during the Spring 2017 

semester.

220. Professor Brown was a former professor at Miami-Dade College. 

221. While at Miami-Dade College, she had received universal dismal ratings as a professor. 

See Exhibit #31.

222. Professor Brown only served one semester as an FIU Law professor. 

223. She received dismal reviews and ratings as a professor at FIU.

224. FIU was negligent in the hiring of this sub-par professor and negligent in her monitoring 

and supervision.

225. Prof. Brown is a radical leftist who either belongs to or provide support for several 

radical leftist organizations.

226. Prof. Brown was the Plaintiff’s Legal Skills and Values II professor. 

227. Prof. Brown recorded the final grade of “C+” on Ms. McLaughlin’s educational record.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 28 of 114
Page 29 of 114

228. During spring 2017 semester, Prof. Brown told Ms. McLaughlin that her support for 

Donald Trump was “immoral.”

229. Prof. Brown told Ms. McLaughlin that her assignments were not graded according to the 

rubric, but instead, were downgraded in all categories at the same meeting she called Ms. 

McLaughlin “immoral.”

230. Prof. Brown created a hostile educational environment by making a personal judgment of 

Ms. McLaughlin’s moral values.

231. Ms. McLaughlin felt intimidated and unsafe in Prof. Brown’s classroom.

232. It is clear that Prof. Brown was so emotionally troubled by Ms. McLaughlin’s 

conservative political stance that she was incapable of executing her duties as professor with 

fairness and impartiality.

233. Prof. Brown knew or should have known to recuse or resign herself from teaching Ms. 

McLaughlin.

234. Instead Prof. Brown chose to abuse her power as professor and openly treat Ms. 

McLaughlin with prejudice and animus.

235. Prof. Brown publically insulted Ms. McLaughlin by calling out her public speaking 

skills.

236. Ms. McLaughlin availed herself of after-class conference but Prof. Brown was evasive 

and failed to give substantive guidance.

237. Prof. Brown repeatedly told Ms. McLaughlin that she didn’t like her “style.” 

238. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Brown intentionally lowered Ms. McLaughlin’s 

grades to retaliate and politically engineer the student body class.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 29 of 114
Page 30 of 114

239. Prof. Brown had repeatedly written positive and praise worthy comments on her papers 

yet repeatedly gave Ms. McLaughlin the lowest grade in the class.

240. Prof. Brown was otherwise inaccessible and evasive in response to Ms. McLaughlin’s 

outreach.

241. Prof. Brown never responded to email requests for clarification and direction.

242. Ms. McLaughlin did not file a grievance before her dismissal because Ms. McLaughlin 

felt intimidated by all members of FIU Law professors and administration.

243. As stated ante, FIU Law froze out Ms. McLaughlin and she found no friendly party with 

whom to address her concerns.

244. As a student with no status or power, Ms. McLaughlin was trying not to antagonize an 

already very hostile environment.

245. After Ms. McLaughlin’s dismissal, she tried to reach Prof. Brown several times by email

and phone messages concerning her grade. See Exhibit #32. 

246. Prof. Brown never responded to Ms. McLaughlin’s attempts to discuss her grade.

247. Plaintiff alleges that Prof. Brown never responded because she was purposely avoiding 

Ms. McLaughlin.

248. Plaintiff alleges that Prof. Brown used non-academic criteria in grading because of her 

political bias.

249. Plaintiff alleges that Prof. Brown intentionally discriminated and retaliated against Ms. 

McLaughlin by issuing a lower grade than if grading was objective and the rubric was 

applied neutrally.

250. Plaintiff alleges that Prof. Brown coordinated with other professors and FIU staff to 

unlawfully cause an academic dismissal.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 30 of 114
Page 31 of 114

251. Prof. Brown served as an adjunct professor for only one semester because FIU was aware 

of Prof. Brown’s dismal student ratings while at FIU.

252. FIU Law undoubtedly knew of Prof. Brown’s subpar performance and likely knew of her 

use of non-academic grading standards and arbitrary grading.

253. Despite Prof. Brown’s failed tenure as a professor, FIU refused to investigate Ms. 

McLaughlin’s allegations of inaccurate or misleading grading based on political bias.

254. FIU showed willful blindness as to Prof. Brown’s conduct.

255. Prof. Brown is sued in her official capacity for infringement of Plaintiff’s right to 

freedom of political expression, hostile educational environment, fraud, civil conspiracy, 

breach of fiduciary duty, and defamation of character.

256. Prof. Brown’s actions and/or failure to act are the proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

harm.

Facts: PROFESSOR WASSERMAN

257. Defendant, Howard Wasserman, is an FIU professor of law.

258. Prof. Wasserman was the Plaintiff’s professor of Civil Procedure during the spring 

Semester of 2017.

259. Prof. Wasserman recorded the final grade of “D” on Ms. McLaughlin’s educational 

record.

260. Prof. Wasserman is a publically, well-known anti-Trump blogger.

261. Prof. Wasserman often expressed extreme, anti-Trump and “Not My President” rhetoric 

during class time.

262. Professor Wasserman directed students to view his blog online where he writes as an 

extreme Trump critic.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 31 of 114
Page 32 of 114

263. Prof. Wasserman engaged in political indoctrination.

264. Ms. McLaughlin felt intimidated to freely express an opposing political viewpoint in his 

classroom.

265. As of early 2017, Prof. Wasserman was aware of Ms. McLaughlin’s support of President 

Trump and the Republican Party.

266. Prof. Wasserman became openly hostile to Ms. McLaughlin and refused to answer her 

questions and ignored her class participation.

267. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Wasserman used non-academic standards to grade her 

exams.

268. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Wasserman graded her exam unblinded and failed to 

use anonymous grading to record Ms. McLaughlin’s exam scores.

269. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Wasserman intentionally lowered Ms. McLaughlin’s 

grades to retaliate and politically engineer the student body class.

270. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Wasserman did not apply the objective grading rubric 

to Ms. McLaughlin’s written exams.

271. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Wasserman tampered with Ms. McLaughlin’s 

multiple-choice Scantron results to manufacture a fraudulent exam score.

272. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Wasserman coordinated with other professors and FIU 

staff to unlawfully cause an academic dismissal.

273. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that her Civil Procedure final grade is inaccurate and misleading.

274. Prof. Wasserman intentionally targeted Ms. McLaughlin for expulsion because of her 

political beliefs. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Wasserman planned a hit-job to force 

Ms. McLaughlin out of law school because of her support for candidate Donald Trump. The 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 32 of 114
Page 33 of 114

hit-job was motivated in part by animus and retaliation for the Plaintiff being a Trump 

supporter, but more sinisterly, was a calculated effort to prevent graduating a conservative 

lawyer who would lend support to the 2020 Trump re-election campaign and the Republican 

Party.

275. Prof. Wasserman was also the Chair of the Academic Standards Committee during Ms. 

McLaughlin’s reinstatement hearing.

276. Prof. Wasserman was, also, the senior professor who supervised all grading and academic 

standing. 

277. Professor Wasserman had access, opportunity and authority to jerry-rig students’ 

education records and class standing.

278. On May 30, 2017, Prof. Wasserman chaired and conducted the Plaintiff’s ASC 

readmission hearing.

279. Prof. Wasserman refused to allow the Plaintiff’s attorney from attending the ASC 

readmission hearing.

280. Prof. Wasserman physically blocked the hallway in front of the ASC meeting room

preventing Ms. McLaughlin’s attorney from entering the ASC hearing.

281. Prof. Wasserman wore athletic shoes, basketball shorts and a tee-shirt to the ASC 

hearing.

282. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that Prof. Wasserman’s attire was a purposeful demonstration of 

the callous disregard for the gravity and the nature of the Plaintiff’s academic dismissal from 

law school.

283. Prof. Wasserman gave Ms. McLaughlin an ultimatum that she either attend the 

readmission hearing without her attorney present or she forfeits any chance of readmission.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 33 of 114
Page 34 of 114

284. Prof. Wasserman aggressively berated and demeaned Ms. McLaughlin, a 1L student, for 

thirty minutes during the ASC hearing.

285. Ms. McLaughlin argued that a final dismissal without having been placed in remediation 

was inherently unfair and treated her disparately from other 1L students who had received the 

benefits of remediation.

286. Prof. Wasserman stated that the burden is on the student to request assistance and that the 

treatment of other similarly situated students was none of her concern.

287. Ms. McLaughlin argued that she had received all passing grades on all assignments and 

interim exams and that without any communication from professors, administration or staff 

she could not possibly discern that expulsion was likely.

288. In fact, Ms. McLaughlin had reached out to several professors for after-class questions 

and she had been ignored.

289. Ms. McLaughlin felt reassured that she was not at peril for expulsion because FIU Law 

had determined that she did not need the benefit of remediation and therefore could handle 

the academic requirements.

290. Prof. Wasserman admittedly stated that FIU Law had not given Ms. McLaughlin any 

indication of possible academic dismissal prior to the final dismissal, but that it was 

nevertheless, proper notice because the rules are published and codified in the FIU Law 

Academic Policies and Regulations.

291. Ms. McLaughlin also argued at the readmission hearing that Prof. Brown may have used 

non-academic standards in her grading because of bias against Ms. McLaughlin.

292. Prof. Wasserman immediately dismissed Ms. McLaughlin’s concerns and stated that the 

ASC had “no jurisdiction to review grades.” 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 34 of 114
Page 35 of 114

293. With a wave of his hand Prof. Wasserman and the ASC never considered Ms. 

McLaughlin’s allegation of inaccurate grading and that the ASC’s decision would be final 

without any review or investigation as to the accuracy of the transcript.

294. Prof. Wasserman had a duty to inform Ms. McLaughlin of any other remedies such as 

appeals, grievances or FERPA rights.

295. Prof. Wasserman had a duty to investigate or review all grades for inaccuracies, 

miscalculations or mis-recordings.

296. Prof. Wasserman had a duty to investigate Ms. McLaughlin’s allegations of bias in 

grading by a newly hired professor.

297. Prof. Wasserman breached his duty to carefully and deliberately evaluate Ms. 

McLaughlin’s academic performance before denying her petition for readmission.

298. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Wasserman breached his duty of fairness and careful 

deliberation before taking Ms. McLaughlin’s FIU Law education because he had 

predetermined the outcome making the ASC hearing a sham proceeding.

299. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Wasserman’s unprofessional conduct during the ASC

readmission hearing was because he felt extreme animus towards Ms. McLaughlin’s political 

expression of support for President Trump.

300. Ms. McLaughlin claims that Professor Wasserman’s chairing the ASC readmission

hearing was biased because he was one of the offending professors who caused her academic 

dismissal and therefore, it is a conflict of interest on its face.

301. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that it is impossible for Prof. Wasserman to conduct a fair and 

neutral readmission hearing of a student for whom he has contempt and has predetermined 

the outcome.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 35 of 114
Page 36 of 114

302. Professor Wasserman knew or should have known to recuse himself from participating in 

Ms. McLaughlin’s ASC hearing.

303. Ms. McLaughlin claims that the ASC hearing chaired by a biased arbiter was a sham and 

predetermined. Therefore, the determination of the ASC is void and unenforceable.

304. Prof. Wasserman is sued personally and in his official capacity for infringement of 

Plaintiff’s right to freedom of political expression, hostile educational environment, violation 

of Procedural and Substantive Due Process, violation of equal protection under color of law, 

denial of assistance to counsel, fraud, civil conspiracy, and breach of fiduciary duty, 

negligence and defamation of character.

305. Prof. Wasserman’s actions and/or failure to act are the proximate cause of Ms. 

McLaughlin’s harm.

Facts: PROFESSOR SCHRIER

306. Defendant, Rosario Schrier, is an FIU professor of law.

307. Professor Schrier was the Plaintiff’s Legal Skills and Values I instructor in Fall Semester 

2016.

308. Prof. Schrier recorded the final grade of “B-” on Ms. McLaughlin’s educational record.

309. In Fall 2016, Professor Schrier gave several “Feel the Bern” speeches promoting 

socialism during regular classroom time.

310. Prof. Schrier engaged in political indoctrination and attempted to sway the students to 

voting for the Democrat nominee.

311. Ms. McLaughlin felt intimidated to freely express an opposing political viewpoint in her 

classroom.

312. Prof. Schrier gave the Plaintiff above average grades in the first half of the Fall semester.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 36 of 114
Page 37 of 114

313. On or about October 2016, Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Schrier became aware of 

Ms. McLaughlin’s support for President Trump and the Republican Party through students 

and/or other professors and Ms. McLaughlin’s social media posts.

314. Ms. McLaughlin states that she noticed a change of attitude and behavior towards her in

the second half of the Fall semester in that Prof. Schrier became inhospitable to Ms. 

McLaughlin’s questions after class.

315. Prof. Schrier gave below average grades in the second half of the Fall semester.

316. Plaintiff alleges that Prof. Schrier used non-academic standards to grade Ms. 

McLaughlin’s assignments.

317. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Schrier intentionally lowered Ms. McLaughlin’s 

grades to retaliate and politically engineer the student body class.

318. Plaintiff alleges that Prof. Schrier began using non-academic standards after learning of 

Ms. McLaughlin’s conservative beliefs and support of the Trump candidacy as political 

retaliation.

319. Plaintiff alleges that Prof. Schrier collaborated with other professors and administrators to 

effectuate an unlawful academic dismissal.

320. Additionally, Professor Schrier was a committee member at Ms. McLaughlin’s 

readmission hearing.

321. Professor Schrier participated in the decision to violate the Plaintiff’s right to counsel at 

the ASC hearing.

322. Professor Schrier voted to deny Ms. McLaughlin’s readmission as a student.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 37 of 114
Page 38 of 114

323. Ms. McLaughlin claims that Professor Schrier’s participation in the ASC readmission

hearing was inherently unfair because she was one of the professors who caused her 

academic dismissal and therefore, lacked neutrality on its face. 

324. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that it is impossible for Prof. Schrier to participate in a fair and 

neutral hearing of a student for whom she has contempt.

325. Professor Schrier should have recused herself from participating in Ms. McLaughlin’s 

ASC hearing.

326. Plaintiff asserts that Prof. Schrier discriminated and retaliated against Ms. McLaughlin 

because of her political beliefs.

327. Prof. Schrier is sued personally and in her official capacity for infringement of Plaintiff’s 

right to freedom of political expression, hostile educational environment, violation of 

Procedural and Substantive Due Process, violation of equal protection, denial of assistance to 

counsel, fraud, civil conspiracy, and breach of fiduciary duty, negligence and defamation of 

character.

328. Prof. Schrier’s actions and/or failure to act are the proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

harm.

Facts: PROFESSOR BAKER

329. Defendant, Thomas E. Baker, is a FIU Professor of law.

330. Prof. Baker was the Plaintiff’s Constitutional Law instructor for Fall Semester 2016.

331. Prof. Baker recorded the final grade of “D” on Ms. McLaughlin’s educational record.

332. Prof. Baker often expressed extreme, anti-Trump rhetoric during class time.

333. Prof. Baker engaged in political indoctrination.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 38 of 114
Page 39 of 114

334. Ms. McLaughlin felt intimidated to freely express an opposing political viewpoint in his 

classroom.

335. In October 2017, during regular class time, Prof. Baker performed a skit demeaning 

Trump supporters. Prof. Baker entered the classroom wearing a “MAGA” hat. Prof. Baker 

spoke in a manner that mocked mentally challenged persons with a southern twang. Prof. 

Baker stated that he was the average Trump voter. Prof. Baker stated “My heroes are 

Napoleon Bonaparte, Forrest Gump and Donald J. Trump.” Prof. Baker carried on for 

several minutes making jokes and mocking Trump supporters as mentally challenged 

fascists.

336. He continued his skit in that his character, the mentally challenged Trump supporter, was 

physically attacked by having text books and his computer thrown at him.

337. Prof. Baker made Ms. McLaughlin feel threatened and unsafe in his classroom.

338. Ms. McLaughlin was very scared to speak out and challenge Prof. Baker’s portrayal of 

Trump supporters because openly defying Prof. Baker would most likely provoke his animus 

and cause him to exercise his unbridled discretion to retaliate with unfair grading.

339. Ms. McLaughlin is a Florida certified teacher and as such she is aware that there is a 

great disparity between the status and power of a teacher and of a student.

340. Prof. Baker made his classroom a hostile educational environment and stifled Ms. 

McLaughlin’s freedom of speech and political expression in his classroom.

341. Prof. Baker made a hostile education environment for several conservative, Republican 

Trump supporting students with his demeaning rhetoric forcing them to conceal their 

political affiliation.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 39 of 114
Page 40 of 114

342. On or about October 2016, Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Baker became aware of 

Ms. McLaughlin’s support for President Trump and the Republican Party through students 

and/or other professors or her social media posts.

343. Ms. McLaughlin states that she noticed a change of attitude and behavior towards her in 

that Prof. Baker would not answer any of Ms. McLaughlin’s questions after class.

344. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Baker graded her exam unblinded and failed to use 

anonymous grading to record Ms. McLaughlin’s exam scores.

345. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Baker intentionally lowered Ms. McLaughlin’s grades 

to retaliate and politically engineer the student body class.

346. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Baker used non-academic standards to record her final 

grade.

347. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Baker fraudulently tampered with her exam Scantron 

score to record a fraudulent exam score.

348. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Baker colluded with other professors to unlawfully 

expel Ms. McLaughlin.

349. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that her grade in Constitutional Law is inaccurate and 

misleading.

350. Prof. Baker is sued in his official capacity for infringement of Plaintiff’s right to freedom 

of political expression, hostile education environment, fraud, civil conspiracy, breach of 

fiduciary duty, negligence and defamation of character.

351. Prof. Baker’s actions and/or failure to act are the proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

harm.

Facts: PROFESSOR NORBERG

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 40 of 114
Page 41 of 114

352. Defendant, Scott F. Norberg, is an FIU professor of law.

353. Prof. Norberg was the Plaintiff’s Contracts Law instructor in Fall 2016.

354. Prof. Norberg recorded the final grade of “C” on Ms. McLaughlin’s educational record.

355. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Norberg is a vocal anti-Trump leftist and used his 

classroom to espouse anti-Trump rhetoric.

356. Prof. Norberg engaged in political indoctrination.

357. Ms. McLaughlin felt intimidated and unsafe to freely express an opposing political 

viewpoint in his classroom.

358. In fact, Prof. Norberg signed an anti-Kavanaugh letter protesting Pres. Trump’s selection 

of Judge Brett Kavanaugh for Supreme Court Justice. See Exhibit # 29.

359. Prof. Norberg (along with Dean Ansah) was one of 10 FIU Law professors to sign the 

anti-Trump/anti-Kavanaugh letter. 

360. FIU Law had the most law professors of all law schools participating in the protest. 

361. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Norberg became aware of Ms. McLaughlin’s support 

for Republican candidates. 

362. Prof. Norberg developed animus for Ms. McLaughlin for her political beliefs. 

363. Prof. Norberg ignored Ms. McLaughlin’s class participation and refused to answer her 

academic questions.

364. On or about November 2016, Prof. Norberg called up a list of students who had not

timely submitted the “Casebook Plus” assignments. 

365. Ms. McLaughlin was not included in that group of students.

366. Ms. McLaughlin did not think this was unusual because she had timely completed all the 

“Casebook Plus” assignments. 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 41 of 114
Page 42 of 114

367. After the completion of the Contracts course, on December 14, 2016, FIU administration 

(Marcia Walker Yang-Program) emailed Ms. McLaughlin and stated that she had not 

completed her “Casebook Plus” assignments. See Exhibit #32.

368. Ms. McLaughlin provided screenshot proof that she had timely completed her “Casebook 

Plus” assignments. See Exhibit #33.

369. Ms. McLaughlin was shocked and disturbed that she received that communication with 

such grossly inaccurate accusation after the semester was complete.

370. FIU Law did not respond to that email communication.

371. FIU failed to disclose that Prof. Norberg had “bumped down” Ms. McLaughlin’s final 

Contracts grade from “C+” to “C.”

372. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that, at least, Prof. Norberg erroneously “bumped down” her 

final grade because her “Casebook Plus” assignments were not properly recorded.

373. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that, at worse, Prof. Norberg maliciously “bumped down” her 

final grade without a legitimate academic reason.

374. Ms. McLaughlin did not become aware that her grade was bumped down until August 

2017 upon receipt of her educational records.

375. FIU Law’s education records do not have any record as to the rationale for the grade 

“bumped down.”

376. Plaintiff alleges that FIU, at the very least, negligently failed to properly give credit for 

the “Casebook Plus” assignment causing a bump-down in grade.

377. Plaintiff asserts that had FIU properly given credit for her Casebook assignments her 

G.P.A. would have been above 2.0 and thus not resulted in an academic expulsion.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 42 of 114
Page 43 of 114

378. In the alternative, Plaintiff alleges that Prof. Norberg intentionally bumped down Ms. 

McLaughlin’s grade for non-academic reasons because of his animus for her political beliefs.

379. FIU has failed to review Prof. Norberg’s grade for any errors or miscalculations 

concerning proper credit for Casebook assignments.

380. FIU has failed to review the rationale of Prof. Norberg’s “bumped down” for a 

permissible academic reason.

381. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Norberg fraudulently tampered with Scantron exam 

scores.

382. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Norberg used non-academic standards to score 

unblinded essay exams.

383. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Norberg intentionally lowered Ms. McLaughlin’s 

grade in retaliation for her political stance and to politically engineer the student body.

384. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Norberg colluded with other professors and 

administrators to effectuate an unlawful academic dismissal.

385. Prof. Norberg is sued in his official capacity for infringement of Plaintiff’s right to 

freedom of political expression, hostile educational environment, fraud, civil conspiracy, 

breach of fiduciary duty, negligence and defamation of character.

386. Prof. Norberg’s actions and/or failure to act are the proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

harm.

Facts: PROF. NOAH WEISBORD

387. Professor Noah Weisbord was an International Law professor at FIU Law during 2016-

2017 academic year.

388. Prof. Weisbord recorded the final grade of “C-” on Ms. McLaughlin’s educational record.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 43 of 114
Page 44 of 114

389. Prof. Weisbord used his classroom to accuse President Trump of being a criminal in 

violation of International and Humanitarian laws. He routinely used his classroom as a

propaganda instrument to influence students to have anti-Trump sentiment.

390. Prof. Weisbord’s hatred of Trump was so virulent that he accused President Trump of 

being a war criminal within one day of President Trump signing an immigration moratorium 

against several countries with notoriously porous and ineffective immigration procedures to 

enhance the safety and security of American citizens.

391. The determination of ineffective and dangerous immigration procedures by these several 

countries was made during the Obama administration.

392. Yet, Prof. Weisbord frequently stated that President Trump was guilty of war crimes.

393. Prof. Weisbord engaged in political indoctrination.

394. Ms. McLaughlin felt intimidated to freely express an opposing political viewpoint in his 

classroom.

395. In the Fall semester of 2016, Prof. Weisbord became aware of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

conservative political beliefs.

396. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Weisbord used non-academic grading to discriminate 

against the plaintiff.

397. Prof. Weisbord had a well-known reputation to have inappropriate sexual relations with 

2016-2017 1L students in the same class as the Plaintiff.

398. In 2018, FIU Law forced Prof. Weisbord to resign his employ likely because his sexual 

affair with a 1L student was revealed.

399. Ms. McLaughlin did not have a sexual affair with Prof. Weisbord.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 44 of 114
Page 45 of 114

400. Plaintiff alleges that Prof. Weisbord used non-academic standards and grade unblinding 

to favorably grade the student subject of the sexual affair.

401. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Weisbord used non-academic standards and unblinded 

grading to unfavorably grade her.

402. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Weisbord lowered her grade in retaliation for her 

political beliefs.

403. As a consequence, Ms. McLaughlin’s grade for International Law was at a detriment 

within the class rank and the mandatory curve.

404. Thus, Ms. McLaughlin’s inaccurate recorded grade was in part responsible for a 0.02 

GPA deficit causing academic expulsion.

405. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that if Prof. Weisbord had graded fairly (without the influence of 

sexual affair and political discrimination) that Ms. McLaughlin correctly earned a grade 

which would have avoided an academic dismissal.

406. Prof. Weisbord is sued in his official capacity for infringement of Plaintiff’s right to 

freedom of political expression, hostile educational environment, fraud, civil conspiracy, 

breach of fiduciary duty, negligence and defamation of character.

407. Prof. Weisbord’s actions and/or failure to act are the proximate cause of Ms. 

McLaughlin’s harm.

Facts: ASSISTANT DEAN ROSENTHAL

408. Defendant, Marci Rosenthal, was the FIU Law interim Assistant Dean of Academic 

Affairs in Summer/Fall 2017.

409. Asst. Dean Rosenthal is an attorney and a member of the Florida Bar and subject to Rule

of Ethics 4-4.2. See Exhibit #34.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 45 of 114
Page 46 of 114

410. On August 25, 2017, FIU’s General Counsel directed Asst. Dean Rosenthal to act as 

FIU’s agent concerning Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint.

411. FIU, through its General Counsel Carbajal, was in receipt of Ms. McLaughlin’s Notice of 

Intent to Litigate since June 26, 2017. See Exhibit #35.

412. Asst. Dean Rosenthal failed to disclose to the Plaintiff that she is a member of the Florida 

Bar and may legally represent clients.

413. Asst. Dean Rosenthal knew or should have known that Ms. McLaughlin was represented 

by counsel and that Ms. McLaughlin intended to pursue legal action against FIU Law 

because of Ms. McLaughlin’s Notice of Intent to Litigate and FIU’s extensive 

communications with the Plaintiff’s attorney.

414. Dean Rosenthal contacted Ms. McLaughlin directly to discuss Ms. McLaughlin’s 

complaints and allegations in violation of Florida Bar Rules of Ethics 4-4.2. See Exhibit #36.

415. The Rule states that “In representing a client, a lawyer shall not communicate about the 

subject of the representation with a person the lawyer knows to be represented by another 

lawyer in the matter, unless the lawyer has the consent of the other lawyer.” See Fla. Bar. 

Rules of Ethics 4-4.2.

416. Dean Rosenthal did not obtain the consent of Ms. McLaughlin’s attorney.

417. Ms. McLaughlin agreed to meet with Asst. Dean Rosenthal conditioned that she permits 

her attorney’s presence at the meeting. See Exhibit #36.

418. Asst. Dean Rosenthal explicitly wrote to Ms. McLaughlin that her legal counsel could not 

attend the meeting. See Exhibit #36.

419. FIU has argued that Asst. Dean Rosenthal was not representing FIU as a client, but rather 

as an “educator” in a student grievance matter. See Exhibit #11.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 46 of 114
Page 47 of 114

420. FIU’s argument fails because FIU may not unilaterally redefine this controversy as a 

mere student grievance to their advantage and disregard the Notice of Pending Litigation, the 

claims of fraud, discrimination, retaliation, FERPA violations and due process violations to 

bypass the Rules of Ethics.

421. Asst. Dean Rosenthal attempted to disadvantage a 1L, law student by denying her the 

assistance of counsel.

422. In fact, Asst. Dean Rosenthal worked at the Department of Education and is considered 

an expert on FERPA law and did not disclose this expertise to the student.

423. Asst. Dean Rosenthal used her enormous disparity in status and knowledge in an attempt 

to overpower and potentially bully Ms. McLaughlin.

424. Asst. Dean Rosenthal understood that any comments or statements made by Ms. 

McLaughlin without the presence of her attorney was discoverable and would certainly be 

used against her during litigation.

425. Asst. Dean Rosenthal purposely denied Ms. McLaughlin assistance of counsel and her 

lack of transparency was an unethical attempt to disadvantage Ms. McLaughlin’s legal rights.

426. Asst. Dean Rosenthal’s conduct is the most egregious of all violation of ethics. 

427. Plaintiff reserves the right to file an ethics complaint with the Florida Bar.

428. Dean Rosenthal is sued in her official capacity for infringement of Plaintiff’s right to 

freedom of political expression, violation of Procedural and Substantive Due Process, 

violation of equal protection, denial of assistance to counsel, breach of fiduciary duty, 

negligence and defamation of character.

429. Dean Rosenthal’s actions and/or failure to act are the proximate cause of Ms. 

McLaughlin’s harm.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 47 of 114
Page 48 of 114

BOARD OF GOVERNORS, FLORIDA UNIVERSITY SYSTEM, NED C. 

LAUDENBACH AND IRIS ELIJAH

430. Defendant, Florida Board of Governors for State University System (FBG) is the 

governing body of all public Florida universities corporation established pursuant to the laws 

of Florida. 

431. Defendants, Ned C. Laudenbach, Chair of Board of Governors, and all members of the 

Board of Governors were at all times relevant to this complaint, and are the final 

policymaking authority for the university systems and are responsible for the adoption and 

authorization of all policies and regulations and provided oversight of FIU, the governing 

university and its colleges.

432. Each member of the FBG is sued in his or her official capacity.

433. FBG is responsible for the adoption and authorization for all of FIU policies and 

regulations.

434. FBG is responsible for all of FIU’s publications such as the websites, student handbooks,

and all other publications.

435. FBG has oversight authority over all law professors, other employees and agents, named 

in the complaint herein.

436. FBG has defended, supported, and sanctioned all actions taken by professors, deans, 

employees and agents referred to in this complaint.

437. Ms. Iris Elijah was the Assistant General Counsel for the Florida Board of Governors at 

the time of this complaint.

438. Ms. Elijah had an excessively close relationship with FIU and all statements ante

paragraph #66 through 71 are incorporated herein.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 48 of 114
Page 49 of 114

439. Ms. Elijah knew or should have known to recuse herself from any participation, 

involvement, direction or control of Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint.

440. FBG did not respond to Ms. McLaughlin’s objection to Ms. Elijah’s participation in this 

complaint.

441. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Ms. Elijah had participation, direction and control over 

FBG’s response letter.

442. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that the FBG failure to investigate, query or review Ms. 

McLaughlin’s complaint was a severe dereliction of duty.

443. FBG’s forwarding complaint concerning matters of compliance with external laws such 

as FERPA to the Office of Inspector General was an abdication of its duty to review. 

444. FBG failed to respond to Ms. McLaughlin’s rebuttal of the FBG determination letter.

445. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that the FBG failed to protect her, a lawfully matriculated 

student, from the nefarious act committed by one of the Florida Universities.

446. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that the FBG’s purpose is to sanction, assist and may even

cover-up the unlawful acts committed by FIU.

447. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that the FBG finding that Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint had no 

merit without any investigation, or response from FIU was in part due to severe bias against 

Ms. McLaughlin.

448. FBG, Mr. Laudenbach, and Ms. Elijah are sued for infringement of the fundamental right 

to freedom of political expression, violation of Procedural and Substantive Due Process, 

violation of equal protection under color of law, denial of assistance to counsel, violation of 

Ms. McLaughlin’s right pursuant to Florida’s FERPA Stat. 1002.225, civil conspiracy, 

breach of fiduciary duty, negligence and defamation of character.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 49 of 114
Page 50 of 114

449. FBG, Mr. Laudenbach and Ms. Elijah’s actions and or failure to act are the proximate 

cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s harm. 

FACTS: FAILURE TO NOTICE PLAINTIFF’S ACADEMIC DISMISSAL

450. Plaintiff alleges that her academic dismissal violated her right to due process because FIU 

never placed Ms. McLaughlin on notice of the risk for academic dismissal before the 

academic dismissal was final.

451. FIU Law never placed Ms. McLaughlin on academic probation.

452. FIU Law never placed Ms. McLaughlin in a remediation program.

453. FIU Law placed more than 40 1L students on academic probation after the Fall semester. 

454. FIU Law placed more than 40 1L students in a remedial program after the Fall semester.

455. FIU Law provided academic support and counseling to more than 40 1L students in 

remediation.

456. FIU Law Regulations gives notice to students with a GPA below 2.0 during the 1L Fall 

semester to continue to the following semester with remediation. See Exhibit #6- Paragraph

#1501.

457. FIU Law Regulations gives no notice or remediation to students who’s GPA happens to 

fall below 2.0 after the 1L Spring semester and expels them immediately without benefit of 

remediation. See Exhibit #6- Paragraph #1601.

458. The Court must find that FIU Law’s scheme that allowed Ms. McLaughlin to have a final 

academic dismissal without FIU providing one single word about dismissal is 

unconstitutional.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 50 of 114
Page 51 of 114

459. FIU Law had a duty to advise Ms. McLaughlin of poor academic performance and the 

possibility of academic expulsion especially since more than 20% of the 1L class was placed 

on probation.

460. In fact, because FIU never communicated any poor academic performance and was not 

placed in remediation, Ms. McLaughlin relied that she was not in peril of academic 

dismissal.

461. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that FIU Law carves out of notice of expulsion and remediation 

from students who had an unsuccessful 1L Spring semesters is a violation of Ms. 

McLaughlin’s right to equal protection because she received disparate treatment of similarly 

situated students as compared to other 1L students.

462. Plaintiff alleges that FIU Law Regulations is inherently unfair to students who only fall 

below 2.0 in the Spring semester at the end of the first year because FIU Law Regulations

mandates an immediate and final academic dismissal without remediation while 1L Fall 

semester are afforded remediation.

463. Ms. McLaughlin did not receive the benefit of remediation because she fell into the donut 

hole of FIU Law Regulation’s contrived and inherently unfair scheme.

464. Contrastingly, FIU Law promoted many 1L students who had received an “F” or failing 

grade in a first year course to the 2L year of law school.

465. Contrastingly, FIU Law promoted many 1L students who were not awarded credit for all 

1L courses to the 2L year of law school.

466. Plaintiff alleges that FIU violated Ms. McLaughlin’s right to due process by making her 

academic dismissal final without any communication or notice.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 51 of 114
Page 52 of 114

467. Plaintiff alleges that the inherently unfair FIU Law Regulations is a purposeful scheme to 

institutionally sanction FIU Law administration and law professors to unlawfully politically 

engineer the law school class.

FACTS: FIU LAW VIOLATED THE ITS OWN ACADEMIC POLICIES AND 

REGULATIONS TO INTENTIONALLY DISADVANTAGE THE PLAINTIFF 

468. FIU Law violated FIU Law Regulations to intentionally disadvantage the Plaintiff.

469. FIU Law violated Ms. McLaughlin’s right to due process because FIU Law arbitrarily 

and capriciously increased Ms. McLaughlin’s risk of academic dismissal.

470. FIU Law violated its own Regulations #1501 by placing students with GPA’s higher

than 2.0 after the Fall semester in remediation.

471. FIU Law arbitrarily and capriciously placed several students with a GPA above 2.0 to 

enter into a remedial program and cut off the benefit of remediation at Ms. McLaughlin’s 

ranking.

472. FIU Law intentionally placed Ms. McLaughlin at the bottom or close to the bottom 

students without remediation.

473. FIU Law failed to provide any notice or publication of the possibility of jerry-rigging the 

FIU Law Regulations to capriciously benefit some students over others.

474. FIU Law capriciously allowed all or almost all students with GPAs below Ms. 

McLaughlin to receive the benefit of remediation to the detriment of the Plaintiff.

475. FIU Law gives one less required fundamental law class to remedial 1L students in the 

spring semester.

476. Therefore, remedial 1L students have four fundamental law school classes while nonremedial 1L students have five.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 52 of 114
Page 53 of 114

477. FIU Law provides a remedial tutoring and support class to the 1L remedial student that is

not available to the other students.

478. The remedial tutoring class is intended to provide support to increase the remedial 

students’ GPA.

479. The three credit remedial tutoring class is also not letter graded, but instead graded 

“Pass/Fail.”

480. Therefore, the remedial students have 3 credits less potential damage to their cumulative 

GPA because the “Pass/Fail” grade in the remedial tutoring class has no effect on the average 

GPA.

481. Ms. McLaughlin, a non-remedial student, did not receive the benefit of any of these 

advantages.

482. Ms. McLaughlin was not aware that several students with GPAs above 2.0 were 

receiving the benefits of the remedial program until several weeks into the spring semester.

483. FIU Law failed to inform Ms. McLaughlin of the existence of the benefits afforded to 

students with GPAs above 2.0.

484. FIU Law failed to offer or counsel Ms. McLaughlin any academic support knowing that

she was arbitrarily placed at the bottom of the non-remedial students. 

485. Plaintiff alleges that FIU Law’s arbitrary act of including students with GPAs above 2.0 

in the remedial program increased Ms. McLaughlin’s risk of academic expulsion.

486. The more than 40 remedial students with GPAs below 2.0 or slight above 2.0 received 

benefits that were intended to increase their GPA substantially above 2.0.

487. FIU Law arbitrarily and capriciously gave these benefits to several students whose GPA 

were between 2.0 and Ms. McLaughlin’s GPA of 2.2.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 53 of 114
Page 54 of 114

488. FIU Law Regulations require a curve (“Grade normalization”) in ranking students in all 

1L classes. See Exhibit #6- Paragraph #1101 – 1104.

489. The advantage given to the students with GPAs between 2.0 and Ms. McLaughlin’s 2.2 

plus the grading curve placed Ms. McLaughlin at an even greater risk to fall below a GPA of 

2.0.

490. FIU Law violated FIU Law Regulations to the detriment of Ms. McLaughlin.

491. FIU Law failed to give Ms. McLaughlin any notice of the additional burden and 

disadvantage placed on her to compete with the students whose GPAs were above 2.0 and 

also received the advantage of the remedial program.

492. Plaintiff alleges that FIU Law cut off remediation support at Ms. McLaughlin’s GPA to 

purposely disadvantage her.

493. It is unreasonable to expect that Ms. McLaughlin, a 1L student, would be able to decipher 

and protect against the unfair scheme to which she was capriciously subjected.

494. Plaintiff asserts that FIU Law violated Ms. McLaughlin’s right to due process by either 

grossly, negligently, or intentionally placing Ms. McLaughlin at increased risk of academic 

expulsion without notice of FIU’s impermissible act of including students with GPAs above 

2.0 in the remedial program.

495. Plaintiff asserts that FIU Law violated Ms. McLaughlin’s right to equal protection by 

either grossly negligent or intentionally placing Ms. McLaughlin at increased risk of 

academic expulsion by treating similarly situated students disparately for the unconstitutional 

purpose of politically engineering the law school student body.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 54 of 114
Page 55 of 114

496. Plaintiff alleges, in good faith, that FIU Law intentionally contrived Ms. McLaughlin’s 

Fall semester GPA and excluded her from remediation to cause an academic dismissal in 

retaliation of her political beliefs.

Facts: FIU LAW VIOLATED PLAINTIFF’S RIGHT TO PROCEDURAL DUE 

PROCESS BECAUSE FIU LAW REGULATIONS CREATE A STRONG 

PRESUMPTION AGAINST READMISSION; CREATE A NON-REBUTTABLE 

PRESUMPTION OF FIU LAW INFALLIBILITY; DENIES ACCESS TO 

EDUCATIONAL RECORDS BUT REQUIRES CLEARLY CONVINCING 

EVIDENCE FOR READMISSION

497. FIU Law violated Plaintiff’s right to procedural due process because Ms. McLaughlin’s 

first notice of academic dismissal was final and only permitted a “Petition for Readmission.” 

Exhibit 6, #1601.

498. The academic dismissal creates a non-rebuttable presumption of FIU Law infallibility of 

ministerial error or inaccurate recording without a careful and deliberate review of the 

educational records. Exhibit 6, #1602.

499. FIU Law Regulations codifies the Petition for Readmission to have a “strong 

presumption against readmission.” Exhibit 6, #1602.

500. FIU Law Regulations codifies the Petition for Readmission to require “compelling and 

extraordinary” reasons for readmission. Exhibit 6, #1602.

501. FIU Law Regulation fails to define or characterize what the “compelling and 

extraordinary” reasons might be. 

502. FIU Law Regulations shifts the burden of proof for readmission to the student. Exhibit 6, 

#1602.

503. FIU Law Regulations denies the Petitioner for Readmission any access to her educational 

records or knowledge of the manner in which her grades were calculated.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 55 of 114
Page 56 of 114

504. Plaintiff alleges that FIU Law Regulations violated Ms. McLaughlin’s procedural due 

process rights on its face.

505. Ms. McLaughlin’s academic expulsion was final without a review or any discussion with 

the student of any kind and only with a reapplication for admission that is highly prejudiced.

506. FIU Law notified Ms. McLaughlin of her academic dismissal by an Email addressed with 

another student’s name. See Exhibit #3.

507. Ms. McLaughlin immediately requested further instructions or directions on the 

readmission process.

508. FIU Law dismissed Ms. McLaughlin’s request for further instructions and postponed a 

response by stating that a letter from the Dean would be forthcoming.

509. FIU Law failed to provide timely instructions because Dean Ansah’s instruction letter 

was received by mail after the deadline for submission of her petition.

510. Plaintiff alleges that FIU Law grossly negligently, or intentionally failed to properly 

respond to Ms. McLaughlin’s request for assistance in the petition process because FIU Law

had predetermined that Ms. McLaughlin’s readmission was denied.

511. On May 22, 2017, despite FIU Law’s failure to provide directions or assistance of any 

kind as to the manner of petitioned for readmission, Ms. McLaughlin timely petitioned for 

readmission.

512. Plaintiff based her petition on two issues:

A. First, Ms. McLaughlin argued that the FIU Law Regulations are inherently unfair 

on its face because it fails to provide the opportunity of remediation only at the 

end of the second semester while providing remediation for other 1L first 

semester students.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 56 of 114
Page 57 of 114

B. Second, Prof. Brown used non-academic standards to grade Ms. McLaughlin’s 

LSV II due to personal animus. Ms. McLaughlin stated that Prof. Brown 

specifically stated that she would not apply the rubric standard to her assignments.

513. FIU Law Regulations’ disparate treatment is inconsistent with the standard of all other

Florida law schools.

514. FIU Law Regulations fail to provide an academically dismissed student access to any 

records or the opportunity to review final grades or exams in preparation for the ASC 

hearing.

515. FIU Law Regulations fail to provide any procedure or remedy for students to challenge 

grades or review grades for inaccuracies or miscalculations.

516. On May 23, 2017, Ms. McLaughlin wrote a letter to Dean Ansah requesting permission 

for her attorney to be present at the hearing. See Exhibit #30.

517. Ms. McLaughlin, also, requested that her LSV 2 grade be reviewed prior to the hearing.

518. FIU Law, through its agent Dean Ansah, response was cursory. See Exhibit #30.

519. On May 31, 2017, Plaintiff arrived at the ASC hearing with the counsel of her choice.

520. FIU Law Regulations permits the possibility of the ASC hearing to be attended by the 

student’s attorney. See Exhibit #6- Paragraph #1604(3).

521. Ms. McLaughlin requested that her attorney attend the ASC petition hearing again, in 

person.

522. Ms. McLaughlin presented a Notice of Representation to Prof. Wasserman who refused 

to accept it.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 57 of 114
Page 58 of 114

523. As described in ante and hereby incorporated, Prof. Wasserman, refused and physically 

blocked the Plaintiff’s attorney access to the ASC hearing while wearing basketball shorts 

and sneakers.

524. Professor Wasserman gave Ms. McLaughlin an ultimatum, that she either attend the 

hearing without counsel or she would have no hearing at all and forfeit her chance for 

readmission to FIU Law.

525. Ms. McLaughlin, faced with a coercive choice, was forced to attend the ASC hearing by 

herself and without the benefit of counsel.

526. Plaintiff alleges that Ms. McLaughlin was severely disadvantaged without the assistance 

of her attorney.

527. Ms. McLaughlin, a 21 year old first year law student, faced the Academic Standards 

Committee hearing alone against five experienced law professors including the Defendants, 

Prof. Wasserman and Prof. Schrier.

528. As mentioned above, Prof. Wasserman gave Ms. McLaughlin a grade of “D” in Civil 

Procedure. As mentioned above, Prof. Schrier gave Ms. McLaughlin a grade of “B-” in LSV 

I.

529. Plaintiff alleges that the ASC hearing was biased on its face because the committee 

members were Ms. McLaughlin’s previous instructors with non-neutral pre-determined bias.

530. Plaintiff alleges that the ASC hearing was unfair because FIU did not permit Ms. 

McLaughlin access to her education records including grades and exam scores to adequately

argue her case for readmission.

531. FIU Law was in sole control of Ms. McLaughlin’s academic records including final exam 

grading.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 58 of 114
Page 59 of 114

532. Ms. McLaughlin did not have the benefit of reviewing her education records, grades,

exam or any document at all.

533. FIU Law Regulations require “clearly convincing” evidence to overcome a strong 

presumption against readmission. See Exhibit #6- Paragraph #1602.

534. It is improbable, if not impossible, to provide “clear and convincing” evidence without 

access to Ms. McLaughlin’s educational records.

535. Ms. McLaughlin faced a very rude, antagonistic, and contentious interrogation led by 

Prof. Wasserman, Chair of the ASC.

536. Ms. McLaughlin argued that Prof. Brown grading was biased and based on non-academic 

standards.

537. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that Prof. Brown had confronted her and stated that her support 

of President Trump was “immoral.”

538. Ms. McLaughlin asked that the ASC review Prof. Brown’s grading for inaccuracies and 

non-academic application of the rubric.

539. Prof. Wasserman stated that the Academic Standards Committee has “no jurisdiction to 

review grades.”

540. Prof. Wasserman stated that any grade dispute, grievance or inquiry would not be 

considered at the ASC hearing.

541. Ms. McLaughlin argued that it would be reasonable and fair to grant her another semester 

as a remedial student considering that she had not received any previous remediation and 

because other similarly situated students have received remediation.

542. Prof. Wasserman summarily denied Ms. McLaughlin’s request.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 59 of 114
Page 60 of 114

543. Prof. Wasserman and Prof. Schrier both antagonistically berated Ms. McLaughlin for 

over thirty (30) minutes while Ms. McLaughlin respectfully withstood the assault.

544. Ms. McLaughlin states that the ASC hearing was a stressful and scarring experience that 

she did not deserve or provoke.

545. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that the ASC hearing was pre-determined because the hearing 

was conducted by the professor defendants that are alleged to have tampered with Ms. 

McLaughlin’s grades because of political animus.

546. Ms. McLaughlin alleges the ASC hearing was a sham because the committee never 

undertook a review of any of Ms. McLaughlin’s grades for accuracy and computational 

errors.

547. Ms. McLaughlin was denied readmission without benefit of a summary of evidence or 

reason for the decision.

548. FIU is likely to argue that Ms. McLaughlin’s academic dismissal was purely based on 

academic reasons and meant to conform to the American Bar Association’s accreditation 

requirements that a student may continue enrollment only if the law student can manage the 

law school curriculum, are able to successfully graduate, and can be expected to pass the bar.

549. Ms. McLaughlin states that those criteria were not met in this case, because Ms. 

McLaughlin has graduated from an accredited law school.

550. Plaintiff alleges that FIU through its agents purposely disadvantaged Ms. McLaughlin to 

fraudulently maintain an academic dismissal in retaliation for her political beliefs.

551. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that FIU’s unconstitutional and unlawful actions were not 

motivated by Ms. McLaughlin’s academic ability, but by an unlawful goal of culling FIU’s 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 60 of 114
Page 61 of 114

law school student body of conservative students and preventing Ms. McLaughlin from ever 

becoming an attorney that would support a conservative political agenda.

Facts: FIU, THE GOVERNING UNIVERSITY, VIOLATED FERPA LAW TO COVER-UP LAW 

PROFESSORS’ MALFESEANCE

552. FIU, the governing university, hereinafter known as FIU, violated FERPA by failing to 

provide proper notice to law students, failing to timely provide all educational records, 

failing to grant a neutral FERPA hearing, obstructing the plaintiff from placing an 

explanatory statement on the educational records and infringing the plaintiff’s right to advice 

of counsel.

553. At the time of Ms. McLaughlin’s matriculation, FIU failed to provide FERPA notice to 

law students.

554. In 2016, FIU Law did not make any mention of FERPA on the College of Law website; 

or in the FIU Law Regulations; or on any published material concerning the law school.

555. The governing university does provide FERPA notice separately to the undergraduates on 

the undergraduate website and FIU School of Medicine provides separate FERPA notice on 

the medical school website.

556. In FIU’s response to the DOE notice of investigation, FIU failed to provide any proof that 

the College of Law provided FERPA notice in 2016-2017 on their website.

557. Subsequently, FIU Law modified the College of Law website to show a FERPA notice in 

response to Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA complaint in 2018.

558. In fact, FIU attempted to defraud the DOE by providing evidence of FERPA notice for 

the following year, 2018, not in dispute.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 61 of 114
Page 62 of 114

559. FIU has argued that the governing university and the College of Law are the same entity

and that FERPA notice to the undergrads is sufficient notice to the law students. See Exhibit

#40.

560. FIU Law acts like a separate entity and does not direct law students to the undergraduate 

website.

561. However, FERPA notice requirements are that a student is reasonably likely to receive 

Notice of FERPA rights pursuant to 34 CFR 99.7(b).

562. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that FIU fails to defeat Ms. McLaughlin’s DOE complaint that 

they failed to provide proper or adequate FERPA notice.

563. From June to August 2017, Ms. McLaughlin’s counsel made several requests to obtain all 

of Ms. McLaughlin’s academic records from FIU Law.

564. On June 16, 2017, Ms. McLaughlin requested all of her student records pursuant to 

FERPA. See Exhibit #37.

565. On June 21, 2017, Isis Carbajal, General Counsel, acknowledged Ms. McLaughlin’s 

FERPA request and apologized for not having responding sooner but that they would make 

the records available promptly pursuant to FERPA. See Exhibit #37.

566. As of July 18, 2017, FIU had failed to provide a single student records or after (32)

thirty-two days and several requests. See Exhibit #38.

567. FIU was in violation of FIU Regulation 108 of their own published (30) thirty day 

requirement to make available FERPA educational records as stated on the FIU 

undergraduate website. See Exhibit # 28.

568. As of August 4, 2017, or (49) forty-nine days later, FIU still owed Ms. McLaughlin 

student records.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 62 of 114
Page 63 of 114

569. FIU has failed to defeat Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint that FIU failed to provide all her 

educational records within the statutory limit or within FIU’s policy.

570. FIU made the request process extremely burdensome because FIU was reluctant to 

disclose evidence of FIU Law nefarious acts.

571. Additionally, FIU intentionally misrepresented to the DOE that Ms. McLaughlin 

requested educational records on June 27, 2017, in its answer to the notice of investigation.

572. FIU’s falsehood can only be attributed to either FIU’s poor record keeping or more likely 

a purposeful deception.

573. FIU Regulation 108 states that if the accuracy of educational records remains in dispute 

the matter will be referred for a FERPA hearing.

574. FIU disregarded FIU Regulation 108 and failed to refer the dispute for a FERPA hearing. 

575. FIU failed to determine if all of Ms. McLaughlin’s educational records are accurate 

pursuant to 34 CFR 99.20(b).

576. On August 25, 2017, FIU admits that all of Ms. McLaughlin’s grades have not been 

reviewed for inaccuracies, miscalculation or recording errors. See Exhibit #11.

577. On December 21, 2017, FIU admits that only LSV 2 grade was reviewed. See Exhibit 

#12.

578. On July 11, 2018, FIU admitted for the third time that they only reviewed one grade for 

inaccuracies. See Exhibit #40.

579. FERPA states that an educational institution must determine if the educational records are 

accurate and then make a finding.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 63 of 114
Page 64 of 114

580. FIU cannot possibly determine if Ms. McLaughlin’s educational records including her 

transcript without having reviewed all grades for inaccuracies, miscalculations, or 

misreporting.

581. FIU must provide a FERPA hearing if a student believes that her educational records are 

inaccurate or misleading.

582. Ms. McLaughlin notified FIU’s President Rosenberg that she believed her educational 

records are inaccurate.

583. FIU failed to provide a FERPA hearing pursuant 34 CFR 99.20(c).

584. FIU denied Ms. McLaughlin’s right to place an explanatory statement on her educational 

record.

Facts: FLORIDA BOARD OF GOVERNORS

585. On December 4, 2017, the Florida Board of Governors (FBG) received Ms. 

McLaughlin’s complaint.

586. On December 6, 2017, Ms. Isis Elijah, FBG’s assistant counsel answered the complaint. 

See Exhibit #14.

587. Ms. Elijah failed to disclose that she was FIU’s former employee (six months previous)

and personal friend of FIU’s current general counsel. Ms. Elijah failed to disclose that she 

appeared concurrently on FIU’s website.

588. On December 11, 2017, Ms. McLaughlin objected to Ms. Elijah’s participation or control 

of the complaint’s investigation because of probable bias and possibly conflict of interest. 

See Exhibit #16.

589. FBG did not answer Ms. McLaughlin’s objections.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 64 of 114
Page 65 of 114

590. The FBG never reached out or communicated with Ms. McLaughlin at all except for the 

final determination.

591. On January 26, 2018, the FBG made that determination without ever conducting an 

investigation or an inquiry into any facts. See Exhibit #17.

592. The FBG admits that it made its determination without any response from FIU.

593. In fact, the letter of determination stated that FIU’s “unsolicited response bore no 

material influence on the determination.” See Exhibit #17.

594. The admitted fact that the FBG failed to request a response from FIU confirms that the 

FBG failed to investigate.

595. The admitted fact that the FBG failed to request a response from FIU demonstrates that 

the determinations letter was predetermined and a sham.

596. The FBG through the Office of Inspector General made a determination as a matter of 

law concerning legal issues of fundamental constitutional rights when it has no authority to 

make such determinations.

597. The FBG’s forwarding of the complaint to Office of Inspector General is a severe 

dereliction of duty.

598. The FBG dismissal was addressed from Rebekah Weeks, Investigation and Audit 

Specialist.

599. The alleged author, Ms. Rebekah Weeks (an Audit Specialist) is not an attorney.

600. The Office of Inspector General has no legal right to make determinations based on the 

interpretation and application of federal constitutional rights and FERPA.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 65 of 114
Page 66 of 114

601. The Inspector General’s office has no authority to make determinations on student 

complaints’ concerning Florida unconstitutional infringement of freedom of speech, political 

expression, and tortious act.

602. The determination letter admits to reviewing allegations concerning civil rights and 

FERPA rights.

603. The Office of Inspector General determined that FIU acted in “good faith” to comply 

with request of educational records.

604. The determination failed to acknowledge that FIU took more than (45) forty-five days 

and several detailed request to provide incomplete educational records.

605. The Office of Inspector General determined that the student failed to initiate and 

complete a “grievance” process.

606. The Office of Inspector General failed to acknowledge that the grievance process in not a 

FERPA hearing and insufficient procedure for allegations of due process violations, fraud, 

and malfeasance. 

607. The determination failed to acknowledge that FIU admitted to reviewing only one grade 

for computational error several months after Ms. McLaughlin’s dismissal despite the fact that 

Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint alleged fraudulent acts by several professors and in several 

different classes.

608. The determination failed to review or acknowledge Ms. McLaughlin’s claims of a hostile 

educational environment.

609. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that the letter of determination was arbitrary and capricious 

because the FBG made no investigation; disregarded FIU’s response which clearly admits an 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 66 of 114
Page 67 of 114

inadequate review of Ms. McLaughlin’s educational record and failed to communicate with 

Ms. McLaughlin.

610. The FBG’s determination lacked basic fairness and neutrality.

611. FBG did not offer Ms. McLaughlin an opportunity for rebuttal.

612. On February 6, 2018, Ms. McLaughlin disputed the determination in detail. See Exhibit 

#41.

613. Ms. McLaughlin received no answer to the rebuttal.

614. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that the FBG never had any good faith intention to properly 

investigate Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint and was only interested in protecting FIU.

615. The FBG failed in its statutory mandate to protect the student, Ms. McLaughlin.

Facts: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

616. The DOE has failed to timely and effectively process Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA 

complaint.

617. As of the filing of this complaint, the DOE has failed to make a finding for 952 days 

since the DOE was in receipt and 779 days since the DOE sent a Notice of Investigation and 

601 days since the DOE stated that the investigation was nearing completion.

618. DOE failure to take action has de facto denied Ms. McLaughlin the opportunity to access 

and review her education records and have a neutral hearing and place an explanatory 

statement on her educational records.

619. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that she has faced a loss of reputation due to the DOE’s failure 

to make a determination in her complaint.

620. Ms. McLaughlin likely lost out on important educational and employment opportunities.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 67 of 114
Page 68 of 114

621. DOE has facilitated FIU perpetrating the fraud of disseminating inaccurate educational 

records such as her transcript and grades because FIU continues to release an inaccurate 

transcript.

622. The DOE failed to act as an intermediary to facilitate the resolution of the dispute.

623. The DOE was in timely receipt of Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint on December 4, 2017.

624. The complaint was addressed to both the Office of Civil Rights and FPCO.

625. The DOE forwarded the complaint to the OCR.

626. The DOE failed to forward the complaint to the FPCO.

627. The DOE admitted mishandling Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint. See Exhibit #23.

628. On March 8, 2018, OCR denied the complaint for lack of jurisdiction.

629. As per OCR’s instructions, I contacted Cerrone Lockett, Esq. at the OCR for information.

630. On March 13, 2018, Ms. Lockett stated “I don’t know anything about the Department of 

Education. I don’t know anything about the Family Policy Compliance Office. I am just an 

attorney in Atlanta.”

631. Ms. Lockett replied to the inquiry about a direct contact person or telephone number or 

email by stating, “I don’t know and I don’t know have any telephone numbers for the FPCO 

and I can’t look it up.” She then referred Ms. McLaughlin to main website.

632. On March 30, 2018, the DOE emailed a nasty, unhelpful response to our inquiry 

requesting a status update concerning the complaint addressed to the FPCO. See Exhibit

#42.

633. Mr. Frank Miller, Deputy Director FPCO, laid the blame of the DOE mishandling of the 

complaint on Ms. McLaughlin, the student.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 68 of 114
Page 69 of 114

634. The DOE misdated Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint with a date that would have placed her 

complaint beyond the statutory filing limit.

635. The DOE did not apologize nor did they try to expedite or mitigate the unnecessary more 

than 120 day delay due to the DOE’s admitted mishandling of the complaint

636. On April 17, 2018, Ms. McLaughlin sent a letter #1 of complaint directly to Secretary 

Elisabeth DeVos, and Mr. Dale King, Director FPCO. See Exhibit #43.

637. On October 18, 2018, Ms. McLaughlin sent letter #2 of complaint directly to Secretary 

DeVos concerning the DOE’s mishandling of the Notice of Investigation. See Exhibit #44.

638. On December 7, 2018, Ms. McLaughlin sent letter #3 of complaint directly to Secretary 

DeVos. See Exhibit #45.

639. On April 22, 2019, Ms. McLaughlin sent letter #4 of complaint directly to Secretary 

DeVos concerning the excessive delay in making a findings letter. See Exhibit #46.

640. The DOE provided reliance that the DOE would expedite Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint.

641. On May 3, 2018, Mr. Dale King responded and provided reliance that the DOE would 

expedite Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint.

642. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that FPCO had direct communication with FIU Law and did not 

inform Ms. McLaughlin of the communication nor allow her a chance to respond or provide 

clarifying information.

643. On May 29, 2018, the DOE sent FIU a Notice of Investigation.

644. The DOE’s violated rule 34 CFR 99.65 by substantially exceeding the permissible 

communication because Mr. King provided FIU a detailed blueprint of defenses and 

justification in the notice of investigation.

645. The DOE provided FIU a complete blueprint of defenses and justifications with citations.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 69 of 114
Page 70 of 114

646. FIU availed itself of the FPCO’s justification by quoting the notice of investigation 

extensively. 

647. In fact, FIU quoted the notice of investigation more than five times and used three large 

block quotes.

648. The DOE misrepresented Joint Statement in Explanation of Buckley/Pell Amendment 

Vol 120 Page 39862 through 39866 by cherry picking one sentence to favor FIU.

649. The DOE’s notice of investigation mischaracterized the reliance on the Joint Statement as 

authority by intentionally omitting the pertinent statement which allows grades to be 

reviewed for inaccuracy and misleading information pursuant to FERPA. See Exhibit #47.

650. The DOE’s notice of investigation is an overt demonstration of the bias against the 

student complainant.

651. Contrastingly, the DOE never provided Ms. McLaughlin with any guidance or 

information during this entire complaint process.

652. On July 11. 2018, FIU filed a response that admitted to failing to investigate, failing to 

provide reasonable notice, denying the assistance of counsel.

653. FIU stalled and dragged their feet to provide access to all of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

educational records within the statutory mandated 45 days violating 34 CFR 99.10(b)

because FIU intended to prevent Ms. McLaughlin’s readmission to FIU by the Fall semester.

654. FIU violated 34 CFR 99.7(b) because FIU Law failed to provide students FERPA notice 

that was reasonably likely to inform law students of their rights.

655. In fact, FIU attempted to defraud the DOE by providing evidence of the law school’s 

FERPA notice for the year after Ms. McLaughlin’s matriculation 2018 and pass it off as 

compliance for 2016.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 70 of 114
Page 71 of 114

656. FIU Law changed their law school website in response to Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint 

and then FIU misrepresented that the website existed while Ms. McLaughlin was a student 

without ever providing any evidence or documentation.

657. Again, FIU attempted to defraud the DOE by claiming that FIU had not received a 

request for records until June 27, 2017 and then delivering all records by August 4, 2017 and 

thereby, remaining in compliance.

658. Ms. McLaughlin had provided the DOE the indisputable emails that educational records 

were requested on June 16, 2017 and that Ms. Carbajal, FIU General Counsel, acknowledged 

receipt and expressed her understanding by stating “I am coordinating with the Law School 

the review of records available to your client pursuant to FERPA.” See Exhibit #38.

659. FIU was in violation of 34 CFR 99.10(b), prima facie, because FIU made available the 

last incomplete batch of records on August 4, 2017 or (48) forty-eight days later.

660. FERPA permits an educational institution to give more rights to students at their 

discretion such that FIU imposed itself a duty to provide FERPA records within (30) thirty 

days instead of (45) forty-five days.

661. FIU was also in violation of FIU Regulation 108, which states that all FERPA must be 

made available within (30) thirty days of request because FIU did not begin to provide 

educational records until July 20, 2017 or (34) thirty-four days after the initial request.

662. FIU made the process of obtaining FERPA educational records exceptionally 

burdensome and Ms. McLaughlin was forced to make multiple detailed requests and multiple 

calls to enforce a vested right granted to her by federal law. See Exhibit #48 and #49.

663. FIU never finished providing all the educational records Ms. McLaughlin requested 

because FIU was trying to cover up FIU Law professors’ malfeasance.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 71 of 114
Page 72 of 114

664. FIU, through its agents, admits to denying Ms. McLaughlin’s rights to a fair FERPA 

hearing with an impartial arbiter; denied her the opportunity to place a statement on her 

educational record; and denied the assistance of counsel.

665. FIU, through its agent Ms. Iris Elijah, admitted that FIU “refused to consider Ms. 

McLaughlin’s request for a hearing.” See Exhibit #40.

666. Ms. Elijah contends that FERPA does not require a hearing for the review of grades, but 

fails to rely on any statute, regulation or case law for its assertion.

667. FIU failed to disclose that the Joint Statement clearly says that student complainants may 

“challenge the accuracy of institutional records which record the grade which was actually 

given. Thus, the parent or student could seek to correct an improperly recorded grade.” See 

Exhibit #47- Joint Statement p. 39862.

668. Additionally, FIU fails to comply with case law in that FERPA permits the challenge of 

ministerial error in grade assignments. See Tarka v. Cunningham, 917 F.2d 890, 891 (5h Cir. 

1990).

669. On August 17, 2017, Ms. McLaughlin had undisputedly challenged the accuracy and 

manner in which her grades were recorded directly to FIU’s Pres. Rosenberg and stated that 

her “final grades are inaccurate and misleading: specifically grades provided by Prof. Brown, 

Wasserman, Baker and Schrier, a least.”

670. Ms. McLaughlin made it very clear that she believed that she may not have received 

proper credit for all her assignment and that some professors may have tampered with 

scantron scores and improperly recorded them.

671. As per 34 CFR 99.20(b) an educational institution is required to “decide” whether to 

amend educational records.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 72 of 114
Page 73 of 114

672. FIU denial of a FERPA hearing was arbitrary and capricious because FIU never reviewed 

all her records for inaccuracy to correctly “decide” whether to amend Ms. McLaughlin’s 

educational records.

673. As of December 21, 2017, FIU through its General Counsel admits to failing to review all 

of Ms. McLaughlin’s educational records and grades for computational errors despite (6) six 

months having elapsed.

674. It is impossible for FIU to know whether Ms. McLaughlin’s concerns and allegations had 

any merit without a proper review of all her grade calculations and grade recording.

675. FIU’s “decision” to not amend Ms. McLaughlin educational record was not based on any 

factual and thorough review.

676. After FIU’s arbitrary “decision” to not amend Ms. McLaughlin’s educational records 

then FERPA vests the right to a FERPA hearing in the student if the student believes that her 

records are inaccurate or misleading pursuant to 34 CFR 99.20(c).

677. FIU also violated FIU Regulation 108 because the dispute remained “unsettled” 

necessitating a FERPA hearing.

678. FIU violated 34 CFR 99.21 by denying Ms. McLaughlin the opportunity to present 

evidence before a neutral arbiter to correct her educational records and possibly be reinstated 

as a law student and continue her law school education at FIU.

679. In the event of an adverse decision, FIU violated 34 CFR 99.21(b)(2) by denying Ms. 

McLaughlin her right to place an explanatory statement on her educational records and thus 

giving Ms. McLaughlin a better chance of admission to another law school.

680. FIU violated 34 CFR 99.22(d) by denying Ms. McLaughlin the assistance of counsel of 

her choice in a dispute concerning the accuracy of her educational records.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 73 of 114
Page 74 of 114

681. FERPA does not vest in the educational institution the right to redefine a FERPA dispute 

about the accuracy of educational records to a student grievance and thus avoiding all 

statutory compliance.

682. FIU, through its agent Marci Rosenthal, intended to disadvantage Ms. McLaughlin and 

unethically obtain discovery because FIU was in possession of a Notice of Intent to Litigate.

683. FIU’s response contained no less than ten (10) untruth, mischaracterization and 

omissions.

684. FIU’s response perpetrated a fraud on the DOE by submitting evidence of FERPA 

compliant notice of academic year 2018 instead of the disputed academic year 2016-17.

685. In fact, FIU Law changed its website and other printed material in response to Ms. 

McLaughlin’s complaint and tried to dodge detection by fraudulently claiming that the 

evidence existed in 2016.

686. DOE has knowledge that FIU failed to substantiate FERPA compliance of providing 

reasonable notice to law students in violation of 34 CFR 99.7(b) and yet has taken no action 

against FIU.

687. Despite, FIU having taken corrective action to add FERPA notice on the law school 

website, DOE has a statutory duty to make a finding that at the time of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

matriculation FIU was in violation of 34 CFR 99.7(b).

688. FIU outright intentionally deceived the DOE by stating that no record exists of Ms. 

McLaughlin request of FERPA records on June 16, 2017.

689. Ms. McLaughlin had provided absolute proof of an email request of educational records 

on June 16, 2017 and FIU General Counsel’s response stating that she was “coordinating 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 74 of 114
Page 75 of 114

with the Law School the review of records available to your client pursuant to FERPA.” 

[emphasis added]. See Exhibit #38.

690. FIU intentionally misrepresented the date of the request to fraudulently place FIU in 

compliance 34 CFR 99.10(b) (providing educational records within forty-five (45) days).

691. FIU will likely claim that this misstatement was a mere oversight or that FIU lost that 

email thread. 

692. However, FIU has shown a pattern of repeated deception and unethical behavior that 

lends the defense of mistake as incredulous.

693. Nevertheless, if FIU lost the sentinel email thread concerning providing access to 

educational records, it is prima facie evidence of failure to maintain adequate record-keeping.

694. FIU blatantly lied again in that FIU stated Ms. McLaughlin had recanted her request to 

review and copy her educational records and requested that they be mailed on July 18, 2017;

FIU failed to provide not one single document in support of this statement.

695. FIU admitted in their response that FIU still owed educational records on August 7, 2018

or a total of fifty-two (52) days from the request date. 

696. DOE has knowledge that FIU admits violating 34 CFR 99.10(b) (providing educational 

records within forty-five (45) days) and continues to fail to take any action against FIU.

697. FIU admitted that they denied review of educational records because grades and exam 

scores are not covered under FERPA.

698. The challenge of grade miscalculation or misreporting of multiple choice exams scores or 

failure to account for completed assignment in grade calculations is governed under FERPA. 

See Tarka v. Cunningham, 917 F.2d 890, 891 (5th Cir. 1990) (FERPA permits the challenge 

of ministerial errors in grade assignments).

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 75 of 114
Page 76 of 114

699. The Joint Statement states that “It is intended only that there be procedures to challenge 

the accuracy of institutional records which record the grade which was actually given. Thus, 

the parents or student could seek to correct an improperly recorded grade.” See Exhibit #47-

Joint Statement Vol 120 Page 39862 through 39866

700. FIU failed to cite any case law or authority that supports their contention that no dispute 

involving grades is governed by FERPA.

701. The DOE is aware that FIU denied a FERPA hearing because FIU decided not to amend 

Ms. McLaughlin’s grades upon reviewing only one grade (LSV 2) for inaccuracies and failed 

to take an action.

702. The DOE is aware that FIU is in violation of 34 CFR 99.20(b) by failing to properly 

decide whether to amend the education record without conducting a proper review and failed 

to take any action.

703. The DOE is aware that FIU is in violation of 34 CFR 99.21 for failing to afford Ms. 

McLaughlin a neutral arbiter, an evidentiary hearing and a written finding and failed to take 

any action.

704. The DOE is aware that FIU failed to allow Ms. McLaughlin to place an explanatory 

statement on her educational records in violation of 34 CFR 99.21 and failed to take any 

actions.

705. The DOE is aware that FIU denied the assistance of counsel as per Ms. McLaughlin’s 

request in violation of 34 CFR 99.22(d) and failed to take any action.

706. The DOE has failed to reject FIU’s contention that the challenge of misleading and 

inaccurate grades is proper according to the Joint Statement.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 76 of 114
Page 77 of 114

707. It is very clear that the DOE is aware that FIU is in FERPA violation and continues to fail 

to take any statutorily mandated action against FIU because of the excessively cozy 

relationship with FIU.

708. The DOE is aware that FIU unethically used the holding of Ewing and Horowitz to deny 

Ms. McLaughlin the assistance of counsel because FIU knows that neither of these cases 

applies to FERPA.

709. The DOE never notified Ms. McLaughlin of FIU’s answer to the notice of investigation. 

710. On August 29, 2018, Ms. McLaughlin sent a letter requesting the status of the 

investigation.

711. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that at every step the DOE failed to communicate with Ms. 

McLaughlin and keep her informed of any developments with the investigation.

712. The DOE delayed and stalled any action on Ms. McLaughlin. The DOE’s conduct can 

best be characterized as “pulling teeth” to get any communications i.e. the DOE was in 

possession of FIU’s answer for fifty-eight (58) day without notifying the student complainant 

or taking any action.

713. On October 5, 2018, Ms. McLaughlin rebutted FIU’s answer.

714. Ms. McLaughlin’s rebuttal delineated all of FIU’s inaccuracies, mistruths, and 

misrepresentations as stated ante and vigorously complained about the DOE mistreatment of 

the plaintiff.

715. On October 18, 2018, Ms. McLaughlin sent a letter to Secretary DeVos, again formally 

complaining of the FPCO’s bias, unhelpful and purposely obstructive actions.

716. On November 1, 2018, Ms. McLaughlin received a phone call from Mr. Michael Hawes, 

the new Director of the FPCO, who admitted that there certainly “was no parity between

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 77 of 114
Page 78 of 114

student and the educational institution treatment” and characterized the FPCO actions as 

“unfortunate.”

717. Mr. Hawes also stated that he could not confirm or deny whether the FPCO was in 

possession of Ms. McLaughlin’s full complaint with exhibits.

718. It is outrageous that the FPCO was uncertain about the status of the complaint’s 

documentation after more than twenty-one (21) months.

719. On November 21, 2018, the DOE, through its agent Mr. Michael Hawes, in response to 

Ms. McLaughlin’s email asking for a status update emailed that “We are nearing completion, 

and expect to have a response to you shortly.” 

720. Mr. Hawes failed to respond to subsequent emails on November 27, and December 7, 

2018 asking for a status update.

721. On December 9, 2018, Ms. McLaughlin sent letter #4 to Secretary DeVos, complaining 

about the failure to respond and properly communicate and the excessive delay in processing 

Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint. 

722. On December 20, 2018, Mr. Hawes emailed that DOE had a few conversation with FIU, 

in which FIU admits that Ms. McLaughlin did indeed make a FERPA request on June 16, 

2017 and that FIU began to provide partial records on July 27, 2017.

723. FIU statement is an undisputable admission that they violated FIU Regulation 108 as per 

FIU FERPA regulation.

724. FIU deceptively did not address the fact that FIU provided records in incomplete batches 

through August 7, 2017 or more than fifty-two (52) days after the initial request in violation 

of 34 CFR 99.10(b).

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 78 of 114
Page 79 of 114

725. FIU also admits that they misplaced Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA request and that FIU 

“was unable to locate, has since been located.”

726. FIU’s admission of misplacing the sentinel email, where Ms. McLaughlin makes a 

FERPA request, is an admission of inaccurate record keeping.

727. FPCO cannot possibly interpret FERPA’s legislative intent to mean that an educational 

institution can string a student for more than a month, give incomplete records and require 

multiple detailed requests to overly burden and exasperate the student.

728. FIU also blatantly lied to FPCO about FERPA notice on the law school website in 2016 

and failed to provide any proof.

729. On December 21, 2019, Mr. Hawes called asking for a copy FIU’s Academic Policies 

and Regulations (which was included with the original complaint).

730. On January 9, 2019, Mr. Hawes assured Ms. McLaughlin’s counsel that her complaint 

was one of the FPCO top five priorities.

731. On March 22, 2019, Mr. Hawes again emailed, “I apologize for the delay, but we are still 

working through some issues regarding your daughter’s [Ms. McLaughlin] case with our 

General Counsel’s office. I hope to have more news soon.”

732. On April 24, 2019, Mr. Hawes replied by email and stated “Please forgive the tardiness 

of my reply to your email . . . . Your daughter’s investigation is still under review by our 

General Counsel’s office, but I did receive word this morning that there has been movement 

on the case. I will let you know as soon as we are able to issue the findings letter.”

733. On April 29, 2019, Mr. Hawes emailed that Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint was still “at the 

top of my list.” See Exhibit #50.

734. The DOE never contacted the Ms. McLaughlin again for another six (6) months.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 79 of 114
Page 80 of 114

735. The Plaintiff alleges that the DOE purposefully and maliciously used stall tactics to 

disadvantage Ms. McLaughlin and favor FIU, the educational institution.

736. On October 9, 2019, the DOE mailed Ms. McLaughlin requesting confirmation that the 

DOE was in possession of all submitted documents.

737. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that the DOE continues to use baseless and frivolous requests to 

stall producing a findings letter.

738. On October 24, 2019, Ms. McLaughlin responded to Mr. Miller by email and fax 

confirming that the FPCO was in possession of all submitted documents substantively.

739. Again, Ms. McLaughlin also contested that the DOE has maliciously stalled the 

determination because of discrimination against Ms. McLaughlin. 

740. The DOE has failed to provide regular status updates.

741. The DOE has left Ms. McLaughlin in the dark on the progress of her complaint and failed 

to effectively communicate with Ms. McLaughlin.

742. The DOE has intentionally stalled making a determination on Ms. McLaughlin’s 

complaint in order to prevent Ms. McLaughlin from filing suit within the statute of 

limitations.

743. The Inspector General’s Report states that any complaint older than six (6) months is 

considered “backlogged.” See Exhibit #51

744. The DOE’s actions have shown callous disregard for Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint.

745. The DOE’s actions demonstrate a bias favoring educational institutions against the rights 

of the students. .

746. FERPA’s statutory enforcement obligations under 29 US Code Section 1232g(f) and (g)

are to appropriately enforce and resolve FERPA complaints.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 80 of 114
Page 81 of 114

747. The DOE failed to protect Ms. McLaughlin’s vested rights as FERPA intended.

FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION

VIOLATION OF PLAINTIFF’S FIRST AMENDMENT RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF 

SPEECH AND POLITICAL EXPRESSION

748. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges each of the facts and allegations contained in paragraph 1 

to 747 in this complaint.

749. The First Amendment’s Freedom of Speech Clause prohibits the federal government 

from suppressing students’ right to freedom of speech and political expression.

750. The First and Fourteenth Amendment of the U. S. Constitution and Florida’s Constitution 

prohibits the State of Florida through the Florida Board of Governors and its public 

universities to infringe conservative students’ exercise of political expression. See US 

Constitution Amendment 1 and 14 and Fla. Const. Art. 1 Sec. 4.

751. The First and Fourteenth Amendment and Florida’s Constitution prohibits the 

governments’ discrimination based on political viewpoint in any form including the 

expulsion of a conservative student for her political beliefs.

752. The Fourteenth Amendment and the Florida Constitution prohibit FIU’s abuse of power 

that expels students for conservative political beliefs.

753. The First Amendment prohibits FIU, as a governmental agency to use HOSTILE 

EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT as an instrumentality to infringe Ms. McLaughlin’s 

right to freedom of political expression.

754. FIU Law sanctions a system that permitted the unbridled authority by its law professors 

to use non-academic standards to determine Ms. McLaughlin’s matriculation based on 

political discrimination.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 81 of 114
Page 82 of 114

755. FIU permitted a hostile educational environment that offended and threatened 

conservative, Trump supporting students.

756. FIU, permitted a biased and intimidating classroom environments that stifled the free and 

uninhibited exchange of ideas.

757. FIU, the governing university, colluded with the offending law professors and the FIU 

Law administrators to cover-up and validate the unconstitutional expulsion due to political 

retaliation and for Ms. McLaughlin’s support of President Trump.

758. FIU failed to investigate allegations of political discrimination and retaliation to maintain 

Ms. McLaughlin’s unconstitutional expulsion.

759. FIU withheld material educational records and denied a FERPA hearing to cover-up 

professor malfeasance and political discrimination.

760. FBG discriminated and infringed the Plaintiff’s right to freedom of political expression 

by failing to investigate the Plaintiff’s complaint and by lacking a fair and neutral system to

process student complaints of violation of constitutional rights.

761. DOE’s actions and failure to act aided FIU’s infringement of Ms. McLaughlin’s right to 

free speech and right to political expression.

762. DOE showed a detrimental bias based on political beliefs towards Ms. McLaughlin’s

FERPA complaint from the outset and throughout the complaint process.

763. Ms. McLaughlin has a private cause of action under Florida’s incorporation of FERPA 

pursuant to FL Stat 1002.22.

764. Florida’s private cause of action provides an equitable remedy of permitting a FERPA 

complainant access to her educational records; a hearing with a neutral arbiter and the 

opportunity to place an explanatory statement concerning inaccurate or misleading records.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 82 of 114
Page 83 of 114

765. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that a neutral FERPA hearing would have revealed inaccurate 

and/or fraudulent grading motivated by political engineering and the attempt to suppress 

conservative political expression.

766. The DOE initiated a Notice of Investigation (finding Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA 

complaint to have merit) then intentionally failed to finish a findings letter would have given 

clarity as to the legal basis for private cause of action against FIU.

767. The DOE actions or failure to act delayed and stalled a determination on the FERPA 

notice of investigation for more than thirty (30) months in an attempt to deny Ms. 

McLaughlin’s right to enforce her right under Florida statute 1002.22.

768. The DOE purposely suppressed any favorable determination to facilitate FIU 

infringement of Ms. McLaughlin’s right to free speech.

769. The DOE purposely failed to make a timely determination of Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA 

complaint to prevent or at least weaken Ms. McLaughlin’s legal right to enforce her rights to 

freedom of political retaliation and discrimination.

770. The DOE policy of favoring universities over conservative students aids and abets 

universities to widely infringe conservative students’ freedom of speech with impunity.

771. The DOE weaponized FERPA law to facilitate the university systems to infringe and 

suppress the plaintiff’s fundamental Constitutional rights to free speech.

772. Accordingly, the DOE actions or lack of action have violated the Plaintiff’s right to 

freedom of speech and expression of political viewpoint guaranteed by the First Amendment.

773. The United States and State of Florida has no legitimate or compelling interest to support 

the discrimination and infringement of speech through expulsion of a law student because of 

the student’s political beliefs.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 83 of 114
Page 84 of 114

774. The common use of the classroom as the venue for leftist-political indoctrination has 

morphed the teacher-student relationship from educator, advisor, and friend to an adversarial, 

repressive, coercive and punitive relationship.

775. Accordingly, the Plaintiff has suffered and continues to suffer economic injury and 

irreparable harm.

776. The Plaintiff is entitled to an award of monetary damages and equitable relief.

SECOND CAUSE OF ACTION

VIOLATION OF PLAINTIFF’S FOURTEENTH AMENDMENT AND FLORIDA 

CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO DUE PROCESS

777. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges each of the facts and allegations contained in paragraph 1 

to 776 in this complaint.

778. The Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution and the Florida 

Constitution guarantees the Plaintiff the right to due process to a property interest.

779. The Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution and the Florida 

Constitution guarantees the Plaintiff the right to due process to a property interest in her good 

name and reputation.

780. The Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution and the Florida 

Constitution guarantees the Plaintiff the right to due process to a liberty interest in free 

speech and political expression.

781. Ms. McLaughlin was a matriculated post-graduate law student in good standing.

782. Ms. McLaughlin’s law school education is a property interest according to Florida law.

783. Ms. McLaughlin has a property interest in her good name and reputation. See Horowitz, 

435 U.S. at 78.

784. Ms. McLaughlin has a liberty interest in her right to speech and political beliefs.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 84 of 114
Page 85 of 114

785. The Fourteenth Amendment and the Florida Constitution prohibits state universities from 

exercising an academic expulsion process that provides no due process or a procedure that is 

arbitrary and capricious.

786. An academic dismissal from law school is a denial of Ms. McLaughlin’s liberty interest 

because such a stigma to her good name, reputation, and honor is severely impaired and 

rarely results in an expelled law student’s readmission to another law school.

787. Accordingly, despite Ms. McLaughlin’s readmission to another law school and repeat the 

1L year caused embarrassment and hardship.

788. FIU’s arbitrary actions have made Ms. McLaughlin less attractive for employment and 

less career opportunity.

789. Several provisions of FIU Law Regulations violated the Fourteenth Amendment and the 

Florida Constitution right to due process because the Regulations are a substantial departure 

from accepted norms. See Ewing, 474 U.S. at 225.

790. The FIU Law Regulations Section 1601 violates the Fourteenth Amendment and the 

Florida Constitution because the provision uses the compulsory term “shall exclude a student 

whose GPA falls below 2.00” prior to any notice or hearing.

791. FIU Law’s Regulations Section 1601 fails to provide due process because no process is

provided prior to the actual taking of the Plaintiff’s property interest in her law school 

education.

792. In this case, Ms. McLaughlin had a GPA of 2.21 at the end of Fall Semester 2016 and 

was never placed in a remedial program.

793. Ms. McLaughlin never received any communication from FIU professors or 

administration that she may be in peril of expulsion.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 85 of 114
Page 86 of 114

794. FIU Law did not provide notice to Ms. McLaughlin of the possibility of non-eligible 

students capriciously receiving the benefit of remediation.

795. FIU Law failure to provide proper notice that she was at risk of academic dismissal 

because their capricious action of admitting students above a 2.0 into the remedial program 

indicated to Ms. McLaughlin that she was a student that did not necessitate remediation or 

was at risk of expulsion.

796. FIU Law knew or should have known that Ms. McLaughlin was at risk of academic 

expulsion and was constitutionally obligated to provide proper notice of the potential takings 

of her legal career.

797. Alternatively, FIU Law knew that Ms. McLaughlin was at risk of expulsion without 

notice and deliberately cut off student admissions at Ms. McLaughlin’s GPA to prevent her 

from benefitting from the program.

798. FIU Law knew that their actions placed Ms. McLaughlin at higher risk of expulsion and 

deliberately failed to give notice to Ms. McLaughlin of a risk of expulsion before the actual 

expulsion.

799. The plain language of FIU Law’s Regulations Section 1601 does not reasonably provide 

a student in the Plaintiff’s circumstances fair warning that an expulsion is imminent and final 

prior to any notice or hearing to the extent that FIU Law jerry-rigged the determination of 

remediation.

800. Additionally, FIU Law’s Regulations relies on the word “earn” a cumulative GPA in 

Section 1601 and 1602.

801. Ms. McLaughlin contests and disputes that her GPA is earned accurately.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 86 of 114
Page 87 of 114

802. Ms. McLaughlin claims that she did not properly receive credit for all of her assignments; 

that her grades were miscalculated; that at least one professor used non-academic standards 

for grading and that at least one professor fraudulently tampered with her grades.

803. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that FIU Law’s dismissal was based on bad faith, ill will, or the 

impermissible ulterior motive of discriminating based on political opinion.

804. Ms. McLaughlin’s due process rights were violated because FIU Law professors did not 

actually exercise responsible professional judgment but instead relied on biased political 

recrimination.

805. Ms. McLaughlin states that her GPA of 1.98 was not “earned” and that her “earned” GPA 

is higher than 2.00.

806. FIU Law fails to give law students any procedure to challenge grade inaccuracies

especially when expulsion is at stake.

807. FIU Law creates a non-rebuttable presumption that FIU administration and professors 

have infallibly recorded each grade accurately.

808. FIU Law shifts the burden of proof for readmission to the student.

809. FIU Law mandates a “strong presumption against readmission” of a student appellant. 

See Exhibit #6- Paragraph #1602.

810. FIU Law places a compulsory standard of proof on the student appellant to prove by 

“clearly convincing” evidence that the student should be readmitted. See Exhibit 6-

Paragraph #1602.

811. FIU Law requires that a student appellant provide evidence of “the most compelling and 

extraordinary circumstances” of personal problems or other factors.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 87 of 114
Page 88 of 114

812. FIU Law denies students’ any access to evidence of grades or any other educational 

records.

813. FIU Law denied Ms. McLaughlin the assistance of the counsel of her choice.

814. FIU Law allowed less than one week to submit a petition for readmission.

815. FIU Law infringed Ms. McLaughlin’s procedural due process right because she was not 

giving a reasonable opportunity to respond under the above circumstances.

816. FIU Law fails to cite or rely on any case law, statute or rule that permits the standard of 

proof after expulsion to be raised to “clearly convincing.”

817. FIU Law fails to cite or rely on any case law, statute or rule that permits a “strong 

presumption” against a student appellant.

818. FIU Law fails to cite or rely on any case law, statute or rule that permits FIU to base their 

decision on “compelling and extraordinary circumstances” of the student’s personal life and 

problems.

819. FIU Law’s academic dismissal was not reached with fairness and impartiality.

820. FIU Law’s Academic Standards Committee decides readmission without making any 

determination about the accuracy of educational records.

821. FIU Law’s “Academic Standards” Committee does not review academic performance.

822. FIU Law’s “Academic Standards” Committee decides readmission based on nonacademic standards such as personal issues.

823. FIU has admitted that it failed to review all her grades for inaccuracies. 

824. FIU Law’s post-dismissal hearing is final and not intended to provide an opportunity to 

discover facts and make an accurate determination.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 88 of 114
Page 89 of 114

825. FIU Law arbitrarily expelled Ms. McLaughlin without verifying that all of her grades 

were properly awarded, calculated, and recorded.

826. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that FIU Law did not know at the time of her expulsion whether 

Ms. McLaughlin “earned” the alleged GPA.

827. Therefore, FIU Law’s Regulations Section 1601 through 1606 was unlawful and 

unconstitutional as applied to the plaintiff.

828. The FIU Law’s Regulations dismissal and petition for readmission process violates all 

standards of due process.

829. The Ewing Court grants excessively broad discretion to universities which FIU has 

weaponized to claim that they have unquestionable discretion to academically expel students. 

See Ewing, 474 U.S. at 225 n. 11 (Universities have wide range of discretion in grades and 

academic performance).

830. Since the Ewing decision, leftist professors and universities have increasingly used the 

holding to abuse their power and unfettered academic discretion as a weapon to retaliate and 

discriminate against conservative students.

831. FIU Law failed to use careful and deliberate consideration of the accuracy of Ms. 

McLaughlin’s grades.

832. FIU Law’s Regulations fails to provide any process for a student to request or review 

educational records.

833. FIU Law’s Regulations fails to provide their law students any process to challenge or 

review grades for possible educational records inaccuracies or misleading information.

834. FIU Law’s Regulations fails to provide any process which ensures that all assignments, 

exams, and grades were properly scored and calculated.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 89 of 114
Page 90 of 114

835. In total, FIU Law’s academic expulsion process poses a high risk of an erroneous 

deprivation of fundamental, substantive, and procedural due process rights.

836. FIU Law fails to provide for any safeguards against mistakes, inadvertence, negligence or 

malfeasance by FIU administrators or professors.

837. FIU Law implements an expulsion process that is arbitrary and overzealously dismisses 

law students without regard for fairness.

838. The lack of clear criteria or fair standards in FIU Law’s Regulations renders these 

regulations and associated practices, unconstitutionally vague and in violation of Ms. 

McLaughlin’s right to due process of law under the Fourteenth Amendment.

839. Ms. McLaughlin urges the Court to go further than Horowitz and Ewing and provide 

procedural safeguards that prevent educational institutions from committing the violations of 

rights pervasive in this complaint.

840. Defendants showed callous disregard for the severe deprivation of property and liberty 

rights.

841. Defendants owed a constitutional duty to meaningful hedge against erroneous actions

842. Ms. McLaughlin’s dismissal which suggested that published and suggested Ms. 

McLaughlin lacked the intellectual capacity to complete an accredited law school curriculum 

requires greater procedural protections.

843. Ms. McLaughlin urges that the Court find that the value of procedural protections in law 

student academic dismissals far outweigh the minor restrictions on academic discretion.

844. Because of FIU’s actions, Plaintiff has suffered and continues to suffer irreparable harm.

845. Plaintiff is entitled to an award of nominal and compensatory damages and equitable 

relief.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 90 of 114
Page 91 of 114

THIRD CAUSE OF ACTION

VIOLATION OF PLAINTIFF’S FOURTEENTH AMENDMENT AND FLORIDA 

CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO EQUAL PROTECTION OF THE LAW

846. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges each of the facts and allegations contained in paragraph 1 

to 844 in this complaint.

847. The Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution and the Florida 

Constitution guarantees the Plaintiff equal protection of the laws, which prohibits Florida 

from treating the student Plaintiff differently than similarly situated students based on 

political beliefs.

848. The government may not treat someone disparately as compared to similarly situated 

persons when such disparate treatment is based on the students’ political views and burdens a 

fundamental right to freedom of political expression.

849. Plaintiff alleges that FIU Law misappropriated her status as a law student (through an 

expulsion) because law professors and administration loathed Ms. McLaughlin’s 

conservative political viewpoint.

850. Plaintiff alleges that FIU Law favored similarly situated students with whom the 

professors and administration agreed with their political views.

851. FIU permitted an unconstitutional violation of equal protection by targeting Ms. 

McLaughlin for her political beliefs.

852. FIU failed to review her grades for inaccuracies and/or miscalculations because FIU 

intended to discriminate against Ms. McLaughlin for her conservative political beliefs.

853. FIU violated Ms. McLaughlin’s right to equal protection under color of law because FIU 

Law Regulations codifies a jerry-rigged scheme which denied meaningful notice of 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 91 of 114
Page 92 of 114

impending dismissal as compared to other similarly situated 1L students who were placed on 

probation and given counseling.

854. FIU denied Ms. McLaughlin a uniform application of academic standards and arbitrarily 

expelled Ms. McLaughlin without using general accepted principles of fair play in her 

dismissal.

855. FBG failed to make a proper investigation of Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint of 

discrimination and retaliation because the Board of Governors protected FIU’s culpability in 

infringing Ms. McLaughlin’s fundamental rights.

856. FBG violated Ms. McLaughlin’s right to equal protection because they also intended to 

discriminate against Ms. McLaughlin’s conservative political belief.

857. The DOE failed to make a determination on FIU’s notice of investigation because the 

DOE intended to support FIU’s unconstitutional infringement of freedom of speech, failure 

to provide procedural due process and equal protection of the law because the deep state 

DOE shares the anti-Trump, anti-conservative animus towards Ms. McLaughlin.

858. Defendants’ lack a compelling state interest for such disparate treatment.

859. Defendants’ policies and practices as applied are not narrowly tailored because

discriminating against Ms. McLaughlin for her political views does not implicate any 

compelling or even legitimate government interest.

860. Because of Defendants’ actions Plaintiff has suffered and continues to suffer economic 

injury and irreparable harm. 

861. Plaintiff is entitled to an award of nominal and compensatory damages and equitable 

relief.

FOURTH CAUSE OF ACTION

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 92 of 114
Page 93 of 114

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION’S BREACH OF LEGAL OBLIGATION TO 

PROPERLY ENFORCE A STUDENT FERPA COMPLAINT

862. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges each of the facts and allegations contained in paragraph 1 

to 860 in this complaint.

863. DOE has a legal obligation to properly process Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA complaint.

864. DOE breached that obligation by mishandling Ms. McLaughlin from the outset.

865. DOE has a statutory legal obligation to timely respond to Ms. McLaughlin, a student

complainant, pursuant to 20 U.S.C. 1232 (g).

866. DOE has breached its legal obligation by failing to make a determination on Ms. 

McLaughlin’s complaint for more than thirty (30) months since the complaint was filed.

867. FERPA fails to state an exact time reference for responding to complaints.

868. Although the statute doesn’t state an exact time reference for responding to complaints, 

failing to respond after twenty-four (24) months is unreasonable. See Exhibit #51.

869. DOE has a statutory duty to complete a letter of findings determination after issuing a 

notice of investigation.

870. DOE has failed to complete a letter of findings for more than twenty-three (23) months.

871. DOE stated that the investigation was complete in January 2019 and that a complete 

determination would be forthcoming within a few weeks.

872. DOE’s failure to complete a findings letter by the time of this filing is a breach of legal 

obligation pursuant to the legislative intent.

873. Ms. McLaughlin asserts that the DOE institutionally suppresses any educational 

institutions’ unfavorable findings in breach of FERPA’s legislative intent.

874. Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint was for the expressed purpose of enforcing her right to 

place an explanatory statement on her educational records. 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 93 of 114
Page 94 of 114

875. As a law school graduate, FIU’s academic expulsion had to be disclosed to internships, 

clerkships and the Florida Bar applications.

876. Ms. McLaughlin may be, also, likely required to disclose FIU’s unlawful expulsion on all 

future employment applications.

877. FIU’s academic expulsion is a very derogatory characterization of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

academic performance and heightens the level of scrutiny as to its accuracy.

878. The IG report states that a failing to make a determination is harmful to the student.

879. DOE’s breach of fulfilling its legal obligations delayed and precluded Ms. McLaughlin 

placing an explanatory statement on her educational records.

880. The DOE failure to make a determination is the proximate cause of Plaintiff being unable 

to place an explanatory statement.

881. The DOE’s failure to timely complete a finding letter continues to implicitly sanction

FIU’s violation of FERPA and permits FIU’s continued harm with impunity.

882. The DOE’s breach of legal obligation to enforce Ms. McLaughlin’s vested FERPA rights 

has caused irreparable harm to Ms. Ms. McLaughlin.

883. Plaintiff has suffered and continues to suffer economic injury and irreparable harm.

884. Plaintiff is entitled to an award of monetary damages and equitable relief.

FIFTH CAUSE OF ACTION

VIOLATION OF PLAINTIFF’S RIGHTS PURSUANT TO FLORIDA’S 

STUDENT AND PARENTAL RIGHTS AND EDUCATIONAL CHOICES ACT

885. Florida has incorporated all student rights pursuant to Family Educational Rights and 

Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. s. 1232g. Fla. Stat. 1002.22(2).

886. Plaintiff has a right to bring an action to enforce her rights by injunction. Fla. Stat. 

1002.22(4).

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 94 of 114
Page 95 of 114

887. The State of Florida through FIU and the FBG failed to comply with FERPA.

888. FIU and the FBG failed to give Ms. McLaughlin proper notice of her rights with respect 

to FERPA pursuant to Fla. Stat. 1002.22(2)(e).

889. FIU and the FBG failed to give Ms. McLaughlin access to her educational records 

pursuant to Fla. Stat. 1002.22(2)(a).

890. FIU and the FBG denied Ms. McLaughlin’s right to challenge her education records as 

inaccurate or misleading in violation of Fla. Stat. 1002.22(2)(c).

891. FIU and the FBG denied Ms. McLaughlin’s right to a FERPA hearing pursuant to 20 

U.S.C. s. 1232g and Fla. Stat. Fla. Stat. 1002.22(2).

892. FIU and the FBG denied Ms. McLaughlin the right to place a statement on her 

educational records pursuant to FL. Stat. 1002.22(2)(c).

893. As a result of FIU’s and the FBG’s violation of FL. Stat. 1002.22, Ms. McLaughlin has a 

permanent stain on her educational record and resume that is inaccurate and misleading. 

894. Ms. McLaughlin has had to disclose the academic dismissal to all job opportunities, 

internships and Florida Bar application.

895. Because of Defendants’ actions Plaintiff has suffered and continues to suffer injury and 

irreparable harm.

896. Plaintiff is entitled to an equitable relief. Plaintiff respectfully requests the Court to 

compel the Defendants to provide access to all her educational records and conduct a FERPA 

hearing and enforce Ms. McLaughlin’s right to place an explanatory statement on her 

educational records.

SIXTH CAUSE OF ACTION

FIU’S DENIAL OF PLAINTIFF ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL VIOLATES FEDERAL LAW

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 95 of 114
Page 96 of 114

897. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges each of the facts and allegations contained in paragraph 1 

to 895 in this complaint.

898. FIU denied Plaintiff’s right to counsel pursuant to 34 CFR 99.22(d). 

899. FIU was aware of Ms. McLaughlin’s Notice of Representation, Notice of Pending 

Litigation and her allegations of fraud and violations of due process.

900. FIU was aware that Ms. McLaughlin alleged that her educational records were inaccurate 

and misleading pursuant to FERPA.

901. FIU chose to ignore Ms. McLaughlin’s representation and denied Ms. McLaughlin’s 

attorney presence during meetings with FIU’s agents.

902. Plaintiff alleges that FIU intended to disadvantage Ms. McLaughlin’s legal rights to 

unethically obtain discovery.

903. Plaintiff alleges that FIU intended to prejudice Ms. McLaughlin during the pre-trial phase 

by placing Ms. McLaughlin in an adversarial position against Ms. Rosenthal, an experienced 

attorney litigator, FERPA expert (former DOE employee), and member of The Florida Bar.

904. Plaintiff alleges that FIU’s denial of counsel was intended to cover-up bad faith, ill will,

and impermissible and unconstitutional academic expulsion.

905. FIU purposely has usurped the holdings of Ewing and Horowitz to abridge Ms. 

McLaughlin’s right to due process and the assistance of counsel.

906. FIU stated “It is well settled that students do not have the right to counsel in academic 

matters.” And cited the above two Supreme Court decisions. See Ewing, 474 U.S. at 214; 

See Horowitz, 435 U.S. at 78.

907. FIU misrepresents the Court’s holding of Ewing because academic dismissals require 

“the ordinary, well recognized principles of fair play.” Ewing, 474 U.S. at 135 n. 4.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 96 of 114
Page 97 of 114

908. FIU ignored the holding in Bishop in that Ms. McLaughlin’s academic dismissal and 

letter of academic standing portrays her as intellectually incapable of achieving a juris 

doctorate requires greater procedural protections. Bishop v. Wood, 426 U.S. 341 (1976).

909. FIU’s denial of the assistance of counsel has caused Plaintiff to suffer an unlawful 

academic expulsion and Plaintiff continues to suffer economic injury and irreparable harm.

910. Plaintiff is entitled to an award of monetary damages and equitable relief.

SEVENTH CAUSE OF ACTION

FRAUD

911. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges each of the facts and allegations contained in paragraph 1 

to 909 in this complaint.

912. The elements of common law fraud in Florida are: a false statement concerning a 

material fact; knowledge by the person making the statement that the representation is false; 

the intent by the person making the statement that the representation will induce another to 

act on it; and reliance on the representation to the injury of the other party. See e.g., Tucker 

v. Mariani, 655 So.2d 221, 225 (Fla. 1 DCA at 1995); Lance v. Wade, 457 So.2d 1008, 1011 

(Fla.1984).

913. FIU Law acted knowingly or in reckless disregard or in deliberate ignorance in making, 

using or causing to be made false records or statements concerning Ms. McLaughlin’s 

attendance, class participation, assignments, exams, and grades.

914. The FIU Law acted knowingly or in reckless disregard or in deliberate ignorance of the 

truth in causing Ms. McLaughlin’s academic dismissal in violation of Fla. Stat. 68.082(2)(b).

915. Defendants acted knowingly or in reckless disregard or in deliberate ignorance of the 

truth in affirming, maintaining and perpetuating Ms. McLaughlin’s academic dismissal.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 97 of 114
Page 98 of 114

916. Plaintiff is entitled to an award of nominal and compensatory damages and equitable 

relief.

917. Pursuant to the common law of fraud in Florida, the Plaintiff is entitled to a remedy for 

the State’s damages as well as any other relief the Court deems appropriate, to include, but 

not exclusive of punitive damages, prejudgment interest and costs.

EIGHTH CAUSE OF ACTION

CIVIL CONSPIRACY

918. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges each of the facts and allegations contained in paragraph 1

to 916 in this complaint.

919. FIU professors conspired with one another, as well as other individuals and entities, to 

perpetrate an unlawful act upon Ms. McLaughlin or to perpetrate a lawful act by unlawful 

means, to wit: Defendants conspired to devise a fraudulent and unconstitutional grading 

scheme to cause Ms. McLaughlin an academic expulsion.

920. The objective of the conspiracy was to deprive Ms. McLaughlin of her property right in a 

graduate law school education and her liberty right to an untarnished reputation.

921. The objective was also discrimination to politically engineer FIU’s graduating law school 

class towards a more liberal political ideology.

922. The objective was also to discriminate to prevent a conservative, Republican, Trumpsupporting law student from graduating and providing political support to future election 

cycles as a FIU alumnus lawyer.

923. FIU, as conspiracy participants, had actual or constructive knowledge of the unlawful act 

to expel Ms. McLaughlin for non-academic reasons and were playing a vital role in the 

maintenance and success of the unlawful expulsion.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 98 of 114
Page 99 of 114

924. FIU, the governing university through its agents, conspired with FIU Law to conceal 

material educational records from Ms. McLaughlin to maintain an unlawful expulsion.

925. FIU, the governing university through its agents, conspired with the FIU Law to frustrate

enforcement of FERPA and to infringe the Plaintiff’s vested right to a neutral FERPA 

hearing and placing an explanatory statement on her educational records.

926. Florida Board of Governors (FBG), as conspiracy participants, had actual or constructive 

knowledge of the unlawful act to expel Ms. McLaughlin for non-academic reasons and 

played a vital role in the maintenance and success of the unlawful expulsion.

927. FBG, as conspiracy participants with FIU, conspired with FIU to conceal material facts

from Ms. McLaughlin and to obstruct a proper investigation to maintain an unlawful 

expulsion.

928. FBG, as conspiracy participants, conspired with FIU to prevent enforcement of FERPA 

to infringe the Plaintiff’s vested right to a neutral FERPA hearing and placing an explanatory 

statement on her educational records.

929. FBG and FIU conspired to prevent any findings of FERPA violations or tortious acts 

which may cause a loss of reputation and/or liability.

930. The U.S. Department of Education (DOE), as conspiracy participants, obtained actual or 

constructive knowledge of the unlawful act to expel Ms. McLaughlin for non-academic 

reasons and played a vital role in the maintenance and success of the unlawful expulsion.

931. The DOE, as conspiracy participants with FIU, conspired with FIU to block a letter of 

determination on the Notice of Investigation.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 99 of 114
Page 100 of 114

932. The DOE, as conspiracy participants, conspired with FIU to infringe Ms. McLaughlin’s 

vested right pursuant to a FERPA hearing and placing an explanatory statement on her 

educational records.

933. The DOE, as conspiracy participants, conspired with FIU to cover-up the university’s 

malfeasance and unlawful conduct.

934. As a direct and proximate result of Defendants’ participation in, and furtherance of, the 

conspiracy; Plaintiff has suffered damages.

935. Plaintiff is entitled to an award of nominal and compensatory damages and equitable 

relief.

NINTH CAUSE OF ACTION

BREACH OF FIDUCIARY DUTY

936. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges each of the facts and allegations contained in paragraph 1

to 934 in this complaint.

937. FIU Law and FIU, the governing university, had a fiduciary duty toward Ms. McLaughlin 

to refrain from discrimination and retaliation based on political beliefs.

938. FIU Law and FIU, the governing university, had a fiduciary duty because she was a 

matriculated graduate student and is the beneficiary of Ms. McLaughlin’s paid tuition.

939. FIU Law and FIU, the governing university, had a fiduciary duty as the sole entity in 

control of Ms. McLaughlin’s student records to provide transparency and accountability 

concerning the calculation and recording of her grades.

940. FIU Law had a fiduciary duty to answer communications from the student.

941. FIU Law breached their fiduciary duty by ignoring Ms. McLaughlin’s emails, voicemails 

and in-person contact.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 100 of 114
Page 101 of 114

942. FIU Law breached their fiduciary duty by allowing professors to freeze out Ms. 

McLaughlin by not answering her questions and ignoring her class participation.

943. FIU Law breached their fiduciary duty toward Ms. McLaughlin by permitting its faculty 

to record inaccurate and/or fraudulent grades.

944. FIU Law breached their fiduciary duty toward Ms. McLaughlin by creating unfair and 

unsanctioned obstacles for Ms. McLaughlin to be a successful student.

945. FIU Law breached their fiduciary duty by creating a hostile classroom environment.

946. FIU Law breached their fiduciary duty by infringing Ms. McLaughlin’s right to due 

process in her expulsion from law school.

947. FIU Law breached their fiduciary duty to maintain a fair and equitable process of 

academic expulsion as to spring semester 1L students.

948. FIU Law breached their fiduciary duty by creating a hostile environment during her ASC 

meeting.

949. FIU Law and FIU, the governing university, breached their fiduciary duty by not 

allowing her right to counsel at the ASC hearing and during her FERPA dispute.

950. FIU Law and FIU, the governing university, breached their fiduciary duty by withholding 

Ms. McLaughlin’s educational records in violation of FERPA laws.

951. FIU, the governing university, breached their fiduciary duty toward Ms. McLaughlin 

through a respondeat superior relationship with FIU Law.

952. FIU, the governing university, breached their fiduciary duty because they were aware of 

Ms. McLaughlin’s grade disputes, grievances, and allegations and failed to take reasonable 

action to investigate and mitigate the plaintiff’s harm.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 101 of 114
Page 102 of 114

953. The Florida Board of Governors (FBG) owes a fiduciary duty to Ms. McLaughlin as a

student because it is the governing body of Florida’s state university systems.

954. The FBG owes a fiduciary duty to objectively investigate student complaints in good 

faith.

955. The FBG owes a fiduciary duty to take reasonable action to remediate a Florida 

University’s wrong doing.

956. The FBG breached its fiduciary duty by having predisposed determinations in favor of 

their Florida Universities against the student, Ms. McLaughlin.

957. The FBG breached its fiduciary duty because it placed biased investigators and arbiters in 

charge of investigating and assessing the complaint.

958. The US Department of Education (DOE) has a fiduciary duty toward student complainant 

pursuant to FERPA.

959. The DOE has a fiduciary duty to timely, objectively, and thoroughly investigate Ms. 

McLaughlin’s complaint.

960. The DOE has a fiduciary duty to take reasonable action upon discovering a university’s 

malfeasance and wrongdoing.

961. The DOE has breached their fiduciary duty by failing to investigate Ms. McLaughlin’s 

complaint neutrally with the goal of aiding FIU with the cover up of malfeasance.

962. The DOE has breached their fiduciary duty because they have intentionally delayed

making a determination for more than thirty (30) months to prevent Ms. McLaughlin from 

filing a legal claim against FIU within the statute of limitations.

963. The DOE breached their fiduciary duty because after twenty-four (24) months of 

investigation they are aware of FIU’s malfeasance and have failed to neither make a 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 102 of 114
Page 103 of 114

determination on Ms. McLaughlin’s claim nor take some remediating action for Ms. 

McLaughlin.

964. FIU Law and FIU, governing university, through a theory of respondeat superior and 

their own direct fiduciary relationship with Ms. McLaughlin was a proximate cause to Ms. 

McLaughlin’s damages.

965. The FBG proximately caused Ms. McLaughlin to suffer damages because they failed to 

require FIU to remediate their wrong doing in any way.

966. The DOE’s breach of fiduciary duty is the proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

damages because they have aided FIU to cover-up their malfeasance.

967. The Defendants' conduct in acting secretly and for an unlawful purpose was a material 

breach of the fiduciary duties existing between the plaintiff and each Defendant which arose 

from the special relationship of trust and confidence existing between the student and an

educational institution.

968. Ms. McLaughlin suffered damages of defamation, loss of income, loss of status as a 

summer legal intern, loss of a year’s tuition, a year’s work of lost income due to the delay in 

Ms. McLaughlin’s graduation, additional tuition, fees expenses and irreparable damage to her 

good name, reputation and career because of Defendants’ breach of fiduciary duty through 

overt actions and/or failure to act.

969. These material breaches include the breaches of the duties of loyalty, fidelity, honesty,

candor, fair dealing and full disclosure are owed to Ms. McLaughlin by FIU, the State 

University system, the FBG, the DOE and all named Defendants.

970. Plaintiff is entitled to an award of nominal and compensatory damages and equitable 

relief.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 103 of 114
Page 104 of 114

TENTH CAUSE OF ACTION 

NEGLIGENCE

971. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges each of the facts and allegations contained in paragraph 1 

to 969 in this complaint.

972. Plaintiff alleges that Defendants had a duty of care to the Plaintiff and that the 

Defendants breached that duty of care which is the actual and proximate cause of Plaintiff’s 

damages.

973. All Defendants have joint and severable liability.

974. Defendants have a duty to treat Ms. McLaughlin neutrally and fairly without inherent 

bias and rancor, or discrimination and retaliation.

975. FIU had a duty to maintain a non-hostile educational environment without demeaning 

and harassing students for their political beliefs.

976. FIU had a duty to properly supervise all employees to prevent the type of abuse of power 

exercised by FIU Law professors and staff.

977. FIU had a duty to grade Ms. McLaughlin using established academic standards.

978. FIU had a duty to maintain blind grading for all courses to prevent the exercise of bias 

and unjust grading in subjectively graded exams and assignments.

979. FIU had a duty to record grades accurately.

980. FIU had a duty to maintain standard record keeping.

981. FIU had a duty to apply its policies and regulations in an unbiased and neutral manner. 

982. FIU had a duty to give Ms. McLaughlin adequate due process before vacating her 1L 

year credits and her status as a student in good standing.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 104 of 114
Page 105 of 114

983. FIU had a duty to reasonably investigate any grade challenges and ensure that there were 

no clerical, technical, recording or intentional errors.

984. FIU had a duty to review whether Professor Brown and other professors correctly applied 

the rubric when grading Ms. McLaughlin’s assignments and exams because incorrect rubric 

points and totals is a computational error.

985. FIU had a duty to review all of Ms. McLaughlin’s grades for any negligent or intentional 

inaccuracies, miscalculations, or intentional fraudulent recording.

986. FIU breached the duty of care to properly supervise and monitor law professors’ conduct 

and actions.

987. FIU breached the duty of care to maintain and keep accurate educational records.

988. FIU breached the duty of care to properly record exam scores.

989. FIU breached the duty of care by allowing the use non-academic standards for grading.

990. FIU breached the duty of care by miscalculating final grades.

991. FIU breached the duty of care by failing to review all of Ms. McLaughlin’s grades for 

inaccuracies and computational errors.

992. FIU breached the duty of transparency by failing to disclose the manner of grade 

calculations for the purpose of covering up tortious acts.

993. FIU breached their duty of care by failing to treat Ms. McLaughlin with fairness in spite 

of her political beliefs.

994. FIU breached their duty of care by permitting a hostile educational environment that 

demeaned and threatened Ms. McLaughlin because of her political beliefs.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 105 of 114
Page 106 of 114

995. FIU breached their duty of care to properly supervise the law professors who abused their 

power by improperly “unblinding” exams; use of non-academic standards; tampering with 

grade recording to jerry-rig the law school rankings based on impermissible criteria.

996. FIU breached their duty of care to accurately record the Plaintiff’s grade and to maintain

complete and accurate records.

997. FIU breached their duty of care to implement an academic dismissal process which 

protects Ms. McLaughlin’s right to procedural due process.

998. FIU breached their duty of care to follow their own stated policies and regulations.

999. FIU breached their duty of care by not properly implementing FERPA.

1000. FBG had a duty to ensure Ms. McLaughlin’s rights as a student are protected.

1001. FBG had a duty to objectively and reasonably review Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint.

1002. FBG had a duty to properly, thoroughly and fairly investigate Ms. McLaughlin’s 

complaint against FIU.

1003. FBG had a duty to remove or recuse any and all staff from making any determination 

when a conflict of interest or a bias existed, in particular Iris Elijah.

1004. FBG had a duty to properly and effectively communicate with Ms. McLaughlin, the 

student complainant.

1005. FBG had a duty to take reasonable action upon determining whether FIU committed any 

unlawful act.

1006. FBG had a duty to protect Ms. McLaughlin from any harm caused by FIU.

1007. FBG is liable for FIU’s negligent acts through a theory of respondeat superior.

1008. FBG breached the duty of care by failing to protect the student from unlawful acts 

committed by the Florida university system.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 106 of 114
Page 107 of 114

1009. FBG breached their duty to objectively and reasonably review Ms. McLaughlin’s 

complaint.

1010. FBG breached their duty of care because it failed to investigate or review the FERPA 

complaint by a competent and qualified person specifically Inspector General.

1011. FBG breached the duty of care because the FBG permitted an unqualified person to make 

a determination as a matter of law.

1012. FBG breached the duty of care because the FBG failed to make a determination of fact 

because the FBG made a determination without FIU’s response.

1013. Based on the identical complaint, the DOE found that Ms. McLaughlin’s FERPA 

complaint did have merit and issued a Notice of Investigation.

1014. The DOE is under no obligation to investigate complaints that are meritless on their face.

1015. FBG’s determination letter is in direct opposition to the DOE’s Notice of Investigation as 

to the merits of Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint of FIU’s FERPA violations.

1016. FBG breached the duty of care by failing to give Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint of FIU’s 

FERPA violations the proper merit and consideration.

1017. FBG breached their duty to reasonably investigate and determine whether FIU committed 

unlawful acts because FBG had willful blindness to any FIU wrongdoing.

1018. FBG breached their duty to carefully and deliberately consider all the legal merits of Ms. 

McLaughlin’s complaint. 

1019. FBG breached the duty of care by failing to take remediating actions to protect Ms. 

McLaughlin from FIU’s wrongful acts.

1020. The DOE has breached its duty of care by failing to timely investigate Ms. McLaughlin’s 

complaint because they negligently mishandled the complaint.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 107 of 114
Page 108 of 114

1021. The DOE has admitted to making a clerical error in failing to assign a case number upon 

receipt.

1022. The DOE has admitted to making a clerical error in failing to properly forward the 

Plaintiff’s complaint to the FPCO.

1023. These admitted clerical mistakes are negligence per se.

1024. These admitted mistakes delayed a determination for at least five (5) months.

1025. The DOE has not taken any reasonable measures to mitigate the Department’s delay in 

processing Ms. McLaughlin’s complaint.

1026. The DOE breached their duty of care to reasonably and timely make a determination on 

the notice of investigation complaint because the DOE negligently mishandled the notice of 

investigation.

1027. The DOE breached their duty of care to enforce the Plaintiff’s vested rights pursuant to 

FERPA because they negligently failed to make a timely determination on FIU’s Notice of 

Investigation.

1028. The DOE breached their duty of care to make a final findings letter because the DOE has 

mishandled Ms. McLaughlin with gross negligence and reckless disregard for Ms. 

McLaughlin’s statutory vested rights.

1029. FIU’s negligent acts are the actual and proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s academic 

expulsion and the resulting damages.

1030. FBG’s negligent acts are the actual and proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s continued 

academic expulsion, damage to her reputation and other resulting damages.

1031. The DOE’s negligent acts are the actual and proximate cause of Ms. McLaughlin’s 

damages because they helped to prolong Ms. McLaughlin’s harm indefinitely.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 108 of 114
Page 109 of 114

1032. Plaintiff is entitled to an award of nominal and compensatory damages and equitable 

relief.

ELEVENTH CAUSE OF ACTION

DEFAMATION; FALSE LIGHT

1033. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges each of the facts and allegations contained in paragraph 1 

to 1031 in this complaint.

1034. An accredited law school’s academic expulsion holds a student in the light of the 

American Bar Association standard in that academic expulsion is proper when a student is 

deemed as unlikely to successfully graduate from law school. American Bar Association 

Section 308, 501(c).

1035. FIU academically expelled Ms. McLaughlin on June 2, 2017.

1036. Ms. McLaughlin successfully graduated from a different accredited law school, two and 

one-half years later, on December 17, 2019.

1037. FIU’s assessment that Ms. McLaughlin is unlikely to successfully graduate from law 

school was grossly misjudged, inaccurate, and false on its face.

1038. FIU defamed Ms. McLaughlin by stating and publishing, on her permanent school record

through her school transcript, as a non-rebuttable fact that Ms. McLaughlin was a failed law 

student and unlikely to graduate law school.

1039. FIU defamed Ms. McLaughlin by stating and publishing, on a letter of student status, as a 

non-rebuttable fact that Ms. McLaughlin was a failed law student and unlikely to finish law 

school.

1040. FIU defamed Ms. McLaughlin by representing Ms. McLaughlin in the “false light” that 

she does not have the capacity to successfully graduate law school.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 109 of 114
Page 110 of 114

1041. FIU communicated the defamatory statement as true in Ms. McLaughlin’s status letter 

and transcript.

1042. FIU knew that Ms. McLaughlin disputed the accuracy of her grades and that her 

academic expulsion was in error.

1043. FIU knew that she had reported malfeasance by liberal law professors wanting to 

discriminate and retaliate against Ms. McLaughlin, due to her conservative political beliefs, 

thereby making her expulsion unlawful.

1044. FIU recklessly defamed Ms. McLaughlin because FIU failed to perform a proper and 

adequate review of Ms. McLaughlin’s educational records as to the accuracy of her final 

grades causing an academic expulsion.

1045. FIU showed reckless disregard for the truth because FIU never reviewed all of the 

transcript grades for miscalculations and/or inaccuracies.

1046. FIU cannot possibly know whether or not Ms. McLaughlin’s grades have any inaccurate 

recordkeeping or miscalculations due to their failure to review her grades.

1047. FIU, at minimum, defamed Ms. McLaughlin when they did not properly and thoroughly 

investigate Ms. McLaughlin’s allegations of unlawful use of non-academic standards and 

grade tampering that led to her expulsion.

1048. Ms. McLaughlin alleges that FIU’s publication of Ms. McLaughlin’s expulsion had 

malicious intent or at least had reckless disregard for the truth because FIU intended to block 

Ms. McLaughlin from ever graduating from any law school.

1049. Ms. McLaughlin suffered damages of reputation and her good name impeding her from 

education and career options.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 110 of 114
Page 111 of 114

1050. Ms. McLaughlin suffered damages because the defamation forced her to forfeit her 

summer job at the State Attorney’s Office because the State Attorney’s Office requires a fulltime student status.

1051. Ms. McLaughlin suffered damages because the defamation precluded Ms. McLaughlin 

from obtaining admission as a 2L transfer student, and therefore forced Ms. McLaughlin to 

repeat her first year, and lose another year’s worth of tuition.

1052. As a direct and proximate result of FIU’s defamation, Ms. McLaughlin has suffered 

damage and injury to her reputation, career, future earnings and diminished opportunities.

1053. Plaintiff is entitled to an award of nominal and compensatory damages and equitable 

relief.

PRAYER FOR RELIEF

WHEREFORE, Ms. McLaughlin respectfully prays that this Court grant relief against the 

Defendants by:

A. Injunctive relief granting the Plaintiff immediate access to her FIU Law student 

educational records, to an impartial FERPA hearing and the right to place a statement 

on her student record pursuant to Fla. Stat. 1002.22(4).

B. A declaratory judgment that FIU violated the Plaintiff’s rights of access to her student 

records, and to an impartial hearing pursuant to Fla. Stat. 1002.2(2)(a-e).

C. A declaratory judgment that FIU Law Academic Policies and Regulations is 

unconstitutional on its face and as applied and deprived Ms. McLaughlin of her 

property right of a law school education and her liberty right to her reputation without 

due process of law pursuant to the Fourteenth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution 

and Florida Constitution Art. 1 Section 9.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 111 of 114
Page 112 of 114

D. Nominal and compensatory damages for infringing Ms. McLaughlin’s exercise of her 

right to freedom of political expression under the First Amendment to the U. S. 

Constitution and the Florida Constitution Art. I Section 4.

E. Nominal and compensatory damages for Defendants’ defamation of Plaintiff’s 

reputation and damaging Ms. McLaughlin’s career and future earnings.

F. Compensatory damages for mental anguish and suffering due to Defendants’ 

unlawful acts.

G. Actual damages loss of paid summer internship summer 2017.

H. Actual damages for the additional expense of her law school education incurred 

because of the unlawful expulsion.

I. Actual damages for Ms. McLaughlin’s student loans for 2016-2017, incurred and lost 

because of the unlawful expulsion.

J. Actual damages for lost wages.

K. Punitive damages for the Defendants’ tortious acts.

L. Plaintiff’s reasonable attorney’s fees, costs and other fees and other disbursements in 

this case pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 1988.

M. Plaintiff prays that all actual, compensatory, and punitive damages exceed Twenty 

Five Million Dollars ($25,000,000.00).

N. Any and all other relief the Court deems just and proper.

Respectfully Submitted

DIANA MCLAUGHLIN, Esq.

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 112 of 114
Page 113 of 114

Attorney for Christina Marie McLaughlin

Florida Bar Number: 84479

10661 Airport Pulling Road

Suite 9

Naples, FL 34109

Phone: (239) 330-6332

Email: drdiana@dianamclaughlin.com

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 113 of 114
Page 114 of 114

VERIFICATION OF COMPLAINT

I, Christina Marie McLaughlin, a citizen of the United States and a resident of the State 

of Florida, hereby declare under penalty of perjury pursuant to 28 U.S.C. Sec. 1746 that I have 

read the foregoing Verified Complaint and the factual allegations therein, and to the best of my 

knowledge the facts as alleged are true and correct.

Executed the ____ day of ____________, 2020 at Naples, Florida.

Christina M. McLaughlin

 

Case 1:20-cv-22942-XXXX Document 1 Entered on FLSD Docket 07/16/2020 Page 114 of 114