The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse's longtime chancellor, Joe Gow, has been fired by the Board of Regents after it was revealed that he and his wife, Carmen Wilson, were involved in making and publishing pornographic videos together. The couple, who used pen names Geri and Jay Hart, authored books on their experiences in the adult film industry, openly sharing their content on social media platforms. Despite their use of pen names, they were not discreet about their involvement in adult entertainment.
Gow, who had been chancellor since 2007, will be placed on paid administrative leave but, as a tenured faculty member, is expected to return eventually in a faculty role. The termination has raised concerns about violations of First Amendment rights, with Gow arguing that the decision disregarded freedom of speech and expression.
The discovery of Gow's involvement in explicit online content led to condemnation from the University of Wisconsin System, with President Jay Rothman deeming his actions "abhorrent." The Board of Regents voted unanimously to terminate Gow, citing a "reckless disregard" for his role.
Gow had previously faced controversy in 2018 when he invited porn actor Nina Hartley to speak on campus, resulting in reprimand and denial of a raise. The recent revelations have prompted a review of Gow's tenure status, with an external law firm engaged to investigate the matter. Gow argues that his actions are protected by tenure and expresses concerns about due process in the termination process.
