Oak Point University Lawsuit – All You Need to Know

Oak Point University, a private nonprofit institution in Chicago specializing in healthcare education, has recently been at the center of significant legal and operational developments. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the notable lawsuits involving the university, its abrupt closure, and addresses frequently asked questions to offer clarity on these matters.

Notable Lawsuits Involving Oak Point University

1. Biometric Privacy Lawsuit

In 2021, a student filed a lawsuit against Oak Point University, alleging that the institution violated the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). The claim centered on the university’s use of remote testing software during exams, which purportedly collected and stored students’ biometric data without proper consent. Initially, the court allowed the lawsuit to proceed, recognizing potential violations of state privacy laws. However, in 2022, the student voluntarily dismissed the case, leading to its conclusion without a judicial determination on the merits.

2. Civil Rights Lawsuit

In January 2024, Annie Burton filed a lawsuit against Oak Point University and several of its officials, alleging violations of her civil rights under 42 U.S.C. §§ 1983, 1985, and 1986. The complaint included claims of bullying, intimidation, assault, and age and racial discrimination. The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois dismissed the case, citing a lack of subject matter jurisdiction and the plaintiff’s failure to establish that the university, a private institution, acted under “color of state law,” a requirement for such federal claims.

Abrupt Closure of Oak Point University

In March 2024, Oak Point University announced internally that it would cease operations on April 19, 2024, leaving students, faculty, and staff with minimal notice. The decision was attributed to a combination of declining enrollment, financial challenges, and accreditation issues. Notably, the university had faced scrutiny from the Higher Learning Commission due to low pass rates on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for its nursing program, which had previously placed its accreditation at risk. To assist affected students, Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois, established a teach-out agreement, ensuring that credits earned at Oak Point would transfer seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What led to the biometric privacy lawsuit against Oak Point University?

The lawsuit stemmed from allegations that the university used remote proctoring software during exams, which collected students’ biometric data without obtaining proper consent, thereby violating the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act.

2. How was the biometric privacy lawsuit resolved?

The student who filed the lawsuit voluntarily dismissed the case in 2022, leading to its conclusion without a court ruling on the allegations.

3. What were the main allegations in the civil rights lawsuit filed by Annie Burton?

Annie Burton alleged that she experienced bullying, intimidation, assault, and discrimination based on age and race by the university and its officials, claiming violations of her civil rights under federal statutes.

4. Why did the court dismiss the civil rights lawsuit?

The court dismissed the case due to a lack of subject matter jurisdiction, noting that Oak Point University is a private institution and the plaintiff failed to demonstrate that the university acted under “color of state law,” a necessary element for the federal claims asserted.

5. Why did Oak Point University close abruptly in April 2024?

The university cited a combination of declining enrollment, financial difficulties, and challenges related to accreditation, particularly concerning low pass rates on the NCLEX for its nursing program, as reasons for its sudden closure.

6. What provisions were made for students affected by the closure?

Lewis University established a teach-out agreement to accommodate displaced students, allowing for the transfer of credits earned at Oak Point University and facilitating the continuation of their education with minimal disruption.

Conclusion

Oak Point University’s recent history has been marked by significant legal challenges and an unexpected closure, impacting its community profoundly. While the lawsuits have concluded, the abrupt cessation of operations underscores the importance of institutional transparency and proactive communication with stakeholders. Affected students are encouraged to engage with Lewis University or other educational institutions to explore options for continuing their studies and to seek guidance on navigating this transition.