MUNCIE, Ind. (WISH) — Ball State University has terminated its director of health promotion and advocacy, following controversial comments she posted on Facebook about conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

An ally of President Donald Trump, Kirk died Sept. 10 at a hospital after being shot at a debate at a college in Orem, Utah, authorities said.

A part of Suzanne Swierc’s social media post said, “Let me be clear: if you think Charlie Kirk was a wonderful person, we can’t be friends,” and added that “Charlie Kirk’s death is a reflection of the violence, fear and hatred he sowed.”

The post attracted attention from Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita and several national right-wing personalities, prompting a response from Ball State University.

Ball State University released a statement explaining that Swierc’s post was inconsistent with her leadership role and caused significant disruption to the university.

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Statement

“On September 10, 2025, Ms. Suzanne Swierc posted a statement on social media related to the assassination of Mr. Charlie Kirk. Our Administration determined the post was inconsistent with the distinctive nature and trust of Ms. Swierc’s leadership position at Ball State University and that the post caused significant disruption to the University.

“Consistent with recent case law in the Seventh Circuit, specifically, Hedgepeth v Britton, No. 24-1427 (7th Cir. 2025), our Administration evaluated the impact of the significant disruption to the University’s mission and operations and the effect of the post on her ability to perform her work in her leadership position.

“As a result of the review, our Administration terminated Ms. Swierc’s employment, effective immediately.

“No additional information will be released on this personnel matter.

“A separate post on a second employee’s personal account remains under investigation by our Administration. No additional information will be released on that post at this time.”

Ball State University, posted at 5:15 p.m. Sept. 17, 2025, on X

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