© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Reports: Michigan Professor Sexually Harassed Students

Two separate photos edited together of Mike Balow standing outside next to the MSU campus Sparty statue and Travis Menge at the Lansing Center for the GOP nominating convention.
Courtesy
/
Travis Menge and Mike Balow
Mike Balow (left) and Travis Menge (right) are the state Republican party nominees to serve on the MSU Board of Trustees.

Investigations conducted by Michigan State University and the University of Michigan found that a political science professor sexually harassed graduate students.

The Lansing State Journal reports that Michigan State hired a consulting firm last year to investigate allegations against William Jacoby.

One former student alleged he propositioned her to start an affair, while another told investigators Jacoby asked for sexual favors in return for academic guidance on her research.

Michigan State's report says the evidence shows a "distinct pattern of behavior."

The University of Michigan's report also concluded that Jacoby violated the university's sexual harassment policy.

Jacoby has denied the allegations. He says the University of Michigan's report is biased and incomplete. He says he's looking into appealing the Michigan State report.

Jacoby retired from Michigan State on Jan. 1.

Related Content
WKAR has closed the gap left by the loss of federal funding. Because of you, trusted journalism, inspiring stories, and classical music remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan.
Now the work continues — your monthly gift helps maintain this success and keeps public media free for all.