Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) President Zulma Toro is under formal investigation after a faculty‑union complaint accused her of bullying, intimidation and demanding personal services from staff. The complaint, nine pages long, was submitted last month to the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities Office of Compliance.
Details of the complaint
The grievance, filed by Lisa Bigelow, CCSU’s director of institutional advancement and president of the administrative faculty union, alleges a pervasive culture of “fear, oppressive control, intimidation, humiliation, and bullying” under Toro’s leadership. It cites 14 alleged violations of the university’s code of conduct involving staff and employees.
According to the filing, the alleged misconduct began at an off‑site leadership retreat held August 11 at the Delamar Hotel in West Hartford. Attendees described Toro’s conduct as displaying “extreme anger, even rage,” and said she abruptly ended the retreat.
Specific accusations
Among the accusations, the complaint states Toro asked university employees to perform personal tasks, such as cutting her food and watching her dog in her office. Another incident dates back to a spring 2018 meeting with athletics staff after a heated student forum about canceling the university’s golf program. The complaint claims Toro warned staff, “My father taught me that when people disrespect you, they either pay with their money or pay with their blood. Someone is going to pay with their blood!”
Bigelow also alleges she was verbally abused by Toro on two separate occasions and is now requesting that Toro be placed on administrative leave while the investigation proceeds. “Removing her from the environment in which she is causing harm is necessary for a fair investigation,” Bigelow said.
University response
CSCU spokesperson Sam Norton confirmed that the Office of Compliance began reviewing the allegations in August and emphasized that all complaints are taken seriously. “It is important that we allow the established process to work and that we not prejudge either the facts or the appropriate employment action before those facts have been fully assessed,” Norton said.
NBC Connecticut attempted to contact President Toro for comment. Reporters found her office dark and her car absent from its assigned spot. Toro has not responded to email inquiries.
Implications for the campus community
The investigation highlights concerns about leadership conduct at a public university that serves thousands of students and staff across Connecticut. Faculty and staff unions stress the need for a workplace that models respect and accountability, especially in an institution that shapes future leaders.
While the outcome of the probe remains pending, the case underscores the importance of transparent governance and the role of state oversight in maintaining ethical standards at public colleges.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.
