The footage, which quickly went viral, shows the professor vehemently shouting at the student, demanding to know their name, and ultimately instructing them to leave the classroom. The incident has ignited a broader discussion about racial dynamics and appropriate conduct within educational environments, particularly within historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
Supposed to Be a Safe Space for Students
The video, titled “Welcome to the HBCU experience,” captures a disturbing scene that is particularly unsettling due to the racial dynamics at play.
Opportunities for All
HBCUs have historically been established to provide educational opportunities for Black students who were denied admission to predominantly white institutions.
Creating a Safe and Inclusive Space for Black Students
These institutions are meant to create a safe and inclusive space for Black students, free from any intimidation or discrimination, especially from white individuals.
The Professor Screamed at the Student
In the video, the professor is seen progressively moving closer to the student, his face filled with rage as he repeatedly demands, “I SAID WHAT IS YOUR NAME?!”
Student Backs Off
Meanwhile, the student leans back in their chair, attempting to create distance from the professor’s aggressive confrontation while remaining seated.
“GET OUT!”
“GET OUT!” the professor motioned with his arm toward the door. “YOU HAVE FAILED THIS COURSE, WHATEVER YOUR NAME IS!! OUT!! OUT!! OUT!!!!!”
The Clip Went Viral
The clip abruptly ends after the professor motions for the student to leave, declaring that they have failed the course.
Originally posted on TikTok, the video quickly gained traction on other social media platforms, amassing over 120,000 likes and numerous shares.
Response From the University
As the video circulated, Twitter users claiming affiliation with Tennessee State University began identifying the professor as Robert Pickard.
Some accounts urged others to spread the video and expressed dissatisfaction with Pickard’s behavior, calling for appropriate actions against him.
Students Say the University Was Aware
According to subsequent tweets, this incident was not an isolated event involving Pickard.
Numerous students alleged that the professor had a reputation for screaming and verbally abusing students, suggesting that the university administration and faculty may have been aware of his behavior.
Anger Issues in the Classroom
These claims were further supported by multiple negative reviews on the Rate My Professor website, where students criticized Pickard’s professionalism, anger issues, and tendency to yell in students’ faces.
The Outrage on Social Media Was Infinite
The outrage expressed on social media emphasized the need for accountability and addressed the power dynamics involved when a white professor displays such aggression toward a Black student in an HBCU setting.
White Professors at HBCUs
While white professors at HBCUs are not unheard of, they remain the exception rather than the norm.
In contrast, predominantly white institutions (PWIs) typically have a majority of white faculty members.
Representative Data
A book titled “A Primer on Minority Serving Institutions” revealed that HBCU faculties are 56% Black and 9.5% white, while at PWIs, professors are 68% white and 5% Black.
Unprofessional Conduct
The incident has raised broader concerns about the treatment of Black students, the significance of racial dynamics in educational spaces, and the responsibility of institutions to address incidents of racism and unprofessional conduct among faculty members.
Public Outcry
Following the public outcry, Robert Pickard resigned from his position as a professor at Tennessee State University’s College of Liberal Arts within 24 hours of the video’s widespread circulation.
He Resigned Just 24 Hours Later
In a statement, Pickard expressed deep regret for his actions, acknowledging that he lost his temper and behaved inappropriately.
He also revealed that he had planned to retire soon and requested privacy following the incident.
Lesson Learned
No further action has been announced about the Professor. Perhaps he has learned a lesson about inclusivity.
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The post White Professor Resigns After Yelling “Get Out, Whatever Your Name Is!” at a Black Student at HBCU College first appeared on Wealthy Living.
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Source: Tiktok