Ohio Coach Fired Over Affair with Student, Drinking Scandal: 'Who is She?'

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Ohio University has terminated the contract of coach Brian Smith following a probe into his alleged affair with an undergraduate student and a drinking problem. The 45-year-old was accused of violating university policy by consuming alcohol in his office multiple times. The investigation, which concluded that Smith committed multiple contract breaches, also found that he engaged in conduct that brought public disrepute to the institution. According to records, the alleged affair with the student occurred while Smith was separated from his wife and undergoing divorce proceedings. However, the university maintains that Smith's actions were a breach of his employment contract and university policy. The investigation also revealed that Smith kept alcohol in his office and had an extramarital affair partially on campus at the Ohio University Inn, where he was likely to be seen by students, donors, and families of student-athletes. University president Lori Gonzalez confirmed the reasons for Smith's termination in a letter to him and his lawyer. Smith had been placed on administrative leave on December 1 while the review was conducted. He disputed the allegations through his attorney, Rex Elliott, who stated that Smith plans to fight the 'wrongful termination' to protect his good name. This incident comes on the heels of Michigan's decision to let go of Sherrone Moore after allegations of an affair with a staff member. The university has maintained that Smith's actions were a serious breach of his employment contract and university policy, leading to his termination for cause.