Michael Simonson, former professor of curriculum and instruction, has filed an appeal regarding his dismissal from Iowa State due to “reasonable grounds” alleging that he sexually harassed three former students.

On Aug. 6, ISU President Martin Jischke released a decision that concurred with Administrative Judge Donald Bohlken’s earlier proposal to dismiss Simonson.

Jischke wrote there was significant evidence presented at his administrative hearing to believe Simonson “created a hostile or abusive academic or work environment.”

Upon the release of Jischke’s statement, Simonson was dismissed from his teaching position at ISU.

Simonson filed his appeal with the state Board of Regents on Friday.

Charles Wright, director of legal services, human resources and information systems for the Board of Regents, said Simonson now has an additional 15 days to submit information to the board.

It is unknown at which Board of Regents meeting Simonson’s appeal will be discussed because of the 15-day time frame, Wright said.

“[The issue] might be addressed in a closed session,” he said, adding that the board will have to coordinate an understanding with the attorney general’s office.

CeCe Wagner, attorney at the attorney general’s office, represented the university at Simonson’s administrative hearing.

Simonson’s hearing ended in January, and Bohlken’s decision was released late June.

Even if Simonson loses his appeal, Wright said the case still may not be over.

“He can appeal to a district court,” Wright said.

Neither Simonson nor his lawyer, Stephan Terrill, could be reached for comment.

John McCarroll, director of University Relations, said there is no reason to believe the previous decisions against Simonson will not stand.

“We expect the decision to hold,” he said. “We think it was the right decision … considering the seriousness of the case.

“Certainly, we can’t predict [the outcome],” McCarroll said, “but we’re confident our decision was the right one.”