© 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
With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.