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In Fall 2023, doctoral student Rebecca Bryant Novak reported that a faculty member allegedly sexually harassed her. A Title IX investigator at the Eastman School of Music dismissed her concerns, but the University of Rochester later investigated and concluded that the professor was responsible for violating the harassment policy and the Eastman School of Music had grossly mishandled her complaint. Despite Bryant Novak’s objections, Eastman allegedly allowed Varon to retain oversight of Bryant Novak’s academic trajectory and limited her concert performance times. 

In December 2024, Rochester opened a second investigation into the alleged harassment of Bryant Novak based on its policy promising to protect students’ free speech rights, including the right to be free from retaliation for making harassment complaints. Bryant Novak wrote about the new investigation on her Substack in February 2025 and, just days later, Eastman expelled her, citing allegedly insufficient academic progress. Contrary to its own policies, Eastman provided no prior warning or opportunity to appeal. ÃÛÖ­ÏãÌÒ wrote the University of Rochester on June 18, 2025, urging it to reinstate Bryant Novak and ensure she receives the due process the university’s policies promise to all students.