A Job Well Dunn

Lorethie "Loe" Dunn endured a legal ordeal filled with misery and pain after filing a complaint with the Louisiana College Technical Training System, believing she faced an unjust forced retirement. From her retirement to the filing of an EEOC complaint, it appeared the odds were stacked against her. Throughout her 30+ years in vocational education, she was an exemplary employee and motivator, with former students still praising her impact as Campus Director in Bastrop. Dunn's fortunes changed however after a promotion, leading her to believe there was a collusion to replace her. When Dunn had the chance to present her case, Judge James Brady passed away, replaced by Judge Shelly Dick. Shortly after, Judge Dick ruled, without oral arguments, in favor of the Louisiana Delta Community College, a decision Dunn felt was unjust. Dunn's life became extremely difficult as health issues arose, compounded by two attorneys abandoning her during the appeal process. Despite these challenges, Dunn remained determined to see her case through.

Without legal counsel, Dunn filed a complaint against Judge Dick, alleging denial of due process. She claimed she and her attorney never communicated with Judge Dick before the adverse ruling. Dunn also argued that the judge's failure to hold a scheduled pre-trial hearing denied her the opportunity to present crucial evidence. Dunn contended that the judge made a hasty ruling against her and violated FED. R. CIV. Procedure 63. Despite her efforts in the Judicial Misconduct Complaint Process, Dunn's complaint was denied in a March 6, 2023 decision. She sought a review of the decision, but it was again denied in a July 19, 2023 decision, with no further review offered. Dunn's last attorney even claimed he was not involved in her complaint.

The July decision felt like the final blow for Dunn in her fight. She acknowledges systemic racism still exists in 2024, though in a different form than in the past. Dunn regrets not being able to do more to positively impact the lives of young people in her community. Despite her disappointment, Dunn remains thankful for her opportunities to serve and refuses to sit idly by. She continues to be a valued member of the community, with many still remembering her and the difference she made in their lives. This, along with the knowledge that her work was not in vain, sustains her. The Monroe Dispatch welcomes another perspective on this story.