By Naman Trivedi

Copyright timesnownews

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville has initiated termination proceedings against assistant professor Tamar Shirinian after social media posts surfaced in which she appeared to celebrate the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk. Shirinian, an anthropology professor, was placed on administrative leave after her comments drew widespread backlash and attention from lawmakers. Conservative activist Robby Starbuck shared the alleged post from Shirinian, an anthropology faculty member, which read in part: “The world is better off without him in it… his kids are better off living in a world without a disgusting psychopath like him…” The University responded swiftly, stating the comments do not reflect its values and emphasizing its commitment to maintaining a respectful, civil learning environment. “Her actions endorsing violence and murder do not represent the university or our values,” UT officials said. UT System President Randy Boyd added that “celebrating or advocating for violence and murder is reprehensible and has no place at the University of Tennessee.” Firings Across Tennessee Universities After Charlie Kirk’s Death Shirinian is not alone in facing consequences. In the days following Kirk’s assassination, several university staff members across Tennessee have been suspended or terminated for comments made on social media: Austin Peay State University fired theater professor Darren Michael after he shared a critical article about Kirk’s stance on gun rights. President Mike Licari said the post did not align with the university’s values of mutual respect and dignity.Middle Tennessee State University fired Laura Sosh-Lightsy, assistant dean for student care and conduct, after she posted: “Looks like ol’ Charlie spoke his fate into existence. Hate begets hate. Zero sympathy.” University President Sidney A. McPhee called her comments “inconsistent with our values.”East Tennessee State University confirmed that two professors are on administrative leave over similar social media activity, though details remain undisclosed due to personnel privacy policies. Senator Marsha Blackburn has also used her campaign platform to spotlight university faculty making controversial remarks about Kirk, urging institutions to take disciplinary action. The wave of firings highlights a growing clash between free expression and public accountability in the wake of politically charged tragedies. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News and around the World.