KNOXVILLE — The University of Tennessee System agreed to pay $1.9 million to settle a lawsuit filed by former assistant anthropology professor Tamar Shirinian, who was fired in February 2026. The settlement requires approval from state officials. Shirinian will not be reinstated to her position as part of the agreement.

Shirinian sued the University of Tennessee System, alleging violations of her First Amendment rights. Her attorney, Robb Bigelow, said, "My client is pleased that the parties reached a resolution." Bigelow added, "Litigation is always difficult, and we're grateful to everyone on both sides who worked diligently to bring this matter to close." He also said, "We believe the resolution reflects the seriousness of the issues while allowing everyone to move forward. We wish the University nothing but success in the future."

The lawsuit stemmed from Shirinian's Facebook posts critical of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. In one post, she stated that the "world is better off without [Charlie Kirk] in it." In another post, she called Kirk's wife, Erika, a "sick fuck for marrying him." Shirinian also requested that the court reveal the name of a donor who allegedly threatened to withdraw a $10 million gift if she was not terminated.

John Compton, Board Chair of the University of Tennessee System, said, "Any continuing litigation would require significant time and attention, and financial resources." Compton stated, "Those resources are better directed toward advancing the institution's mission, vision and values."

In January 2026, Austin Peay State University reinstated a professor and paid $500,000 after that professor was fired for sharing an old news headline related to Charlie Kirk's stance on gun rights. In a separate case, former Ball State University staff member Suzanne Swierc received a $225,000 settlement after being fired for a Facebook post stating, "If you think Charlie Kirk was a wonderful person, we can't be friends."