Case: Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania

2:25-cv-06502 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania

Filed Date: Nov. 18, 2025

Case Ongoing

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Case Summary

In July 2025, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued an administrative subpoena amid concerns that the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) was violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by subjecting “Jewish faculty, staff, and other employees to an unlawful hostile work environment based on national origin, religion, and/or race.” The subpoena sought, among other materials, the names and identifying information of employees of Jewish faith or ancestry, as well a…

UPenn initially complied in part, producing three complaints it had received. The EEOC contended, however, that these materials were deficient because they lacked identifying information and were subject to confidentiality restrictions that did not comport with the subpoena. The agency then requested information concerning all clubs, groups, organizations, and recreational activities related to Jewish religion, faith, and/or origin. Although UPenn produced responsive materials, it declined to directly identify individual members. The EEOC subsequently renewed its demand for the names and identifying information of employees of Jewish faith or ancestry, as well as personal information concerning employees affiliated with Jewish studies, organizations, and community events. UPenn again refused.

Following UPenn’s refusal to fully comply, the EEOC filed this action on November 18, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania seeking enforcement of the administrative subpoena. The case was assigned to Judge Gerald J. Pappert.

On January 5, 2026, Judge Pappert ordered the Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania to show cause why the subpoena should not be enforced. In its response, UPenn argued that the EEOC sought to “invade employees’ private affairs and compel the disclosure of their associations without articulating any compelling interest justifying that serious burden on First Amendment rights,” particularly where the University had proposed a less intrusive alternative. Specifically, UPenn offered to notify all employees of the EEOC’s interest in receiving information about experiences of antisemitism and to provide instructions for contacting the agency directly.

The American Academy of Jewish Research, the Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, the national and University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors, and the Penn Association of Senior and Emeritus Faculty all filed motions to intervene in this action in support of the University of Pennsylvania. On February 3, the court granted their motions, finding that they had a sufficient interest in preventing disclosure of their members' affiliations, faced a tangible threat if the subpoena were enforced, and would receive inadequate representation from the University whose objections were primarily unrelated to First Amendment concerns.

On March 31, 2026, the court granted the EEOC's application for enforcement of an administrative subpoena. Judge Pappert found the discrimination charge valid, determining that the subpoena sought relevant information without imposing an undue burden. The court rejected Penn's constitutional challenges including substantive due process, First Amendment, and equal protection claims, and ordered Penn to comply with the administrative subpoena as modified to protect employees' specific organizational affiliations.

This case remains ongoing.

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Summary Authors

Jinan Abufarha (1/29/2026)

Maddy Ligon (4/10/2026)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/71926807/parties/equal-employment-opportunity-commission-v-the-trustees-of-the-university/

Judge(s)

Attorney for Defendant

ARONCHICK, MARK A. (Pennsylvania)

Expert/Monitor/Master/Other

Ackerman, Samuel (Pennsylvania)

Adegbile, Debo P. (Pennsylvania)

BURKE, SEAN V. (Pennsylvania)

Davy, Jim (Pennsylvania)

Judge(s)

Pappert, Gerald John (Pennsylvania)

Attorney for Defendant

ARONCHICK, MARK A. (Pennsylvania)

HAMERMESH, MATTHEW (Pennsylvania)

Kagedan, Eitan Gavriel (Pennsylvania)

SHANOR, AMANDA (Pennsylvania)

Shapell, Ariel (Pennsylvania)

WALCZAK, WITOLD J. (Pennsylvania)

Other

Ackerman, Samuel (Pennsylvania)

Adegbile, Debo P. (Pennsylvania)

BURKE, SEAN V. (Pennsylvania)

Davy, Jim (Pennsylvania)

GREENE, OLIVIA P. (Pennsylvania)

KELLY, KEVIN MICHAEL (Pennsylvania)

Kelner, Robert (Pennsylvania)

KUTLER, NOAM (Pennsylvania)

LAWRENCE, DEBRA M. (Pennsylvania)

Parness, Evan D. (Pennsylvania)

Rolsma, Benjamin (Pennsylvania)

WAXMAN, SETH P. (Pennsylvania)

Attorney Contact Information via CourtListener

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Documents in the Clearinghouse

	Document
1 2:25-cv-06502	Application for an Order to Show Cause Why U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's Administrative Subpoena Should not be Enforced U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania	Nov. 18, 2025	Nov. 18, 2025 Pleading / Motion / Brief
13 2:25-cv-06502	Order U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania	Jan. 5, 2026	Jan. 5, 2026 Order/Opinion
20 2:25-cv-06502	Respondent's Answer in Opposition to Application for an Order to Show Cause U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania	Jan. 20, 2026	Jan. 20, 2026 Pleading / Motion / Brief
37 2:25-cv-06502	Memorandum U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania	Feb. 3, 2026	Feb. 3, 2026 Order/Opinion 2026 WL 281132
54 2:25-cv-06502	Memorandum U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania et al.	March 31, 2026	March 31, 2026 Order/Opinion 2026 WL 885480

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Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/71926807/equal-employment-opportunity-commission-v-the-trustees-of-the-university/

Last updated April 16, 2026, 3:19 a.m.

ECF Number	Description	Date	Link Date / Link
1	COMPLAINT for Enforcement of Administrative Subpoena against THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA, filed by EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION. (Attachments: # 1 Designation Form, # 2 Civil Cover Sheet, # 3 Declaration Exhibit 1, # 4 Attachment A, # 5 Attachment B, # 6 Attachment C, # 7 Attachment D, # 8 Attachment E, # 9 Attachment F, # 10 Attachment G, # 11 Attachment H, # 12 Attachment I, # 13 Attachment J, # 14 Attachment K, # 15 Attachment L, # 16 Attachment M, # 17 Attachment N, # 18 Attachment O, # 19 Attachment P, # 20 Attachment Q, # 21 Attachment R, # 22 Attachment S, # 23 Exhibit Exhibit 2, # 24 Text of Proposed Order)(LAWRENCE, DEBRA) (Entered: 11/18/2025) 1 Designation Form View on PACER 2 Civil Cover Sheet View on PACER 3 Declaration Exhibit 1 View on RECAP 4 Attachment A View on RECAP 5 Attachment B View on PACER 6 Attachment C View on PACER 7 Attachment D View on PACER 8 Attachment E View on PACER 9 Attachment F View on PACER 10 Attachment G View on PACER 11 Attachment H View on PACER 12 Attachment I View on PACER 13 Attachment J View on PACER 14 Attachment K View on PACER 15 Attachment L View on PACER 16 Attachment M View on PACER 17 Attachment N View on PACER 18 Attachment O View on PACER 19 Attachment P View on PACER 20 Attachment Q View on RECAP 21 Attachment R View on RECAP 22 Attachment S View on PACER 23 Exhibit Exhibit 2 View on PACER 24 Text of Proposed Order View on RECAP	Nov. 18, 2025	Nov. 18, 2025 Clearinghouse
2	Opt In Notice of Procedure to Consent to Random Magistrate Judge Assignment (Attachments: # 1 Consent)(sbt) (Entered: 11/20/2025) 1 Consent View on PACER	Nov. 20, 2025	Nov. 20, 2025 RECAP
3	Notice re: Availability of Court-Annexed Mediation (sbt) (Entered: 11/20/2025)	Nov. 20, 2025	Nov. 20, 2025 RECAP
4	NOTICE by U.S. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION designation form (corrected) (LAWRENCE, DEBRA) (Entered: 11/20/2025)	Nov. 20, 2025	Nov. 20, 2025 RECAP
	Attorney Required Forms	Nov. 20, 2025	Nov. 20, 2025
	Attorneys are required by local rule to complete and file both a Civil Cover Sheet and a Designation Form. PLAINTIFF's counsel is directed to file DESIGNATION FORM in this case using the Notice (Other) docket event located in the Notices category. The question about related cases was not answered. (sbt)	Nov. 20, 2025	Nov. 20, 2025
5	Summons Issued as to THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. Forwarded To: Debra M. Lawrence on 11/21/25 (fdc) (SUMMONS ISSUED IN ERROR. PLEASE SEE PROPOSED ORDER AT ECF 1-24.) (va). (Entered: 11/21/2025)	Nov. 21, 2025	Nov. 21, 2025
6	NOTICE of Appearance by SEAN V. BURKE on behalf of THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (Attachments: # 1 Certificate of Service)(BURKE, SEAN) (Entered: 12/02/2025)	Dec. 2, 2025	Dec. 2, 2025
7	MOTION for Pro Hac Vice Admission of Seth P. Waxman ( Filing fee $ 75 receipt number APAEDC-18788581.) filed by THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA.Proposed Form of Order, Movant's Statement, Sponsor's Statement. (Attachments: # 1 Certificate of Service)(BURKE, SEAN) (Entered: 12/02/2025)	Dec. 2, 2025	Dec. 2, 2025
8	MOTION for Pro Hac Vice Admission of Debo P. Adegbile ( Filing fee $ 75 receipt number APAEDC-18788608.) filed by THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA.Proposed Form of Order, Movant's Statement, Sponsor's Statement. (Attachments: # 1 Certificate of Service)(BURKE, SEAN) (Entered: 12/02/2025)	Dec. 2, 2025	Dec. 2, 2025
9	MOTION to Reassign Case re Related Case filed by THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA.. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum Memorandum of Law, # 2 Appendix Complaint, # 3 Appendix EEOC Charge, # 4 Text of Proposed Order, # 5 Certificate of Service)(BURKE, SEAN) (Entered: 12/02/2025) 1 Memorandum Memorandum of Law View on PACER 2 Appendix Complaint View on PACER 3 Appendix EEOC Charge View on PACER 4 Text of Proposed Order View on PACER 5 Certificate of Service View on PACER	Dec. 2, 2025	Dec. 2, 2025
10	RESPONSE in Opposition re 9 MOTION to Reassign Case re Related Case filed by U.S. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION. (LAWRENCE, DEBRA) (Entered: 12/03/2025)	Dec. 3, 2025	Dec. 3, 2025 RECAP
11	NOTICE of Withdrawal of re 9 MOTION to Reassign Case re Related Case (BURKE, SEAN) (Entered: 12/03/2025)	Dec. 3, 2025	Dec. 3, 2025 RECAP
12	ORDER GRANTING 7 8 MOTIONS FOR PRO HAC VICE ADMISSION OF SETH P. WAXMAN AND DEBO P. ADEGBILE. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 12/3/25. 12/3/25 ENTERED AND COPIES E-MAILED. (va) (Entered: 12/03/2025)	Dec. 3, 2025	Dec. 3, 2025
13	ORDER GRANTING 1 APPLICATION FOR AN ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE WHY ITS ADMINISTRATIVE SUBPOENA SHOULD NOT BE ENFORCED. THE TRUSTEES SHALL FILE AN ANSWER TO THE APPLICATION ON OR BEFORE TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2026, AND THE EEOC SHALL FILE A REPLY ON OR BEFORE TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2026. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 1/5/26. 1/5/26 ENTERED AND COPIES E-MAILED.(va) (Entered: 01/05/2026)	Jan. 5, 2026	Jan. 5, 2026 Clearinghouse
14	MOTION to Intervene as Defendants filed by American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty.Memorandum of Law, Declarations, Certificate of Service, and Proposed Order. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum of Law in Support of Motion to Intervene, # 2 Text of Proposed Order, # 3 Exhibit A - AAJR Declaration (Redacted), # 4 Exhibit B - JLSA Declaration (Redacted), # 5 Exhibit C - AAUP Declaration, # 6 Exhibit D - AAUP-Penn Declaration, # 7 Exhibit E - PASEF Declaration)(HAMERMESH, MATTHEW) (Entered: 01/13/2026) 1 Memorandum of Law in Support of Motion to Intervene View on RECAP 2 Text of Proposed Order View on PACER 3 Exhibit A - AAJR Declaration (Redacted) View on RECAP 4 Exhibit B - JLSA Declaration (Redacted) View on PACER 5 Exhibit C - AAUP Declaration View on PACER 6 Exhibit D - AAUP-Penn Declaration View on PACER 7 Exhibit E - PASEF Declaration View on PACER	Jan. 13, 2026	Jan. 13, 2026 RECAP
15	MOTION to Seal Document 14 MOTION to Intervene as Defendants filed by AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors.Memorandum of Law and Certificate of Service. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum of Law in Support, # 2 Text of Proposed Order)(HAMERMESH, MATTHEW) (Entered: 01/13/2026) 1 Memorandum of Law in Support View on RECAP 2 Text of Proposed Order View on PACER	Jan. 13, 2026	Jan. 13, 2026
16	NOTICE of Appearance by MARK A. ARONCHICK on behalf of AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors with Certificate of Service(ARONCHICK, MARK) (Entered: 01/13/2026)	Jan. 13, 2026	Jan. 13, 2026
17	NOTICE of Appearance by Eitan Gavriel Kagedan on behalf of AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors with Certificate of Service(Kagedan, Eitan) (Entered: 01/13/2026)	Jan. 13, 2026	Jan. 13, 2026
18	Declarations re 15 MOTION to Seal Document 14 MOTION to Intervene as Defendants, by AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors.(FILED UNDER SEAL)(md) (Additional attachment(s) added on 1/14/2026: # 1 Sealed Document) (md). (Entered: 01/14/2026)	Jan. 13, 2026	Jan. 13, 2026
19	NOTICE of Appearance by WITOLD J. WALCZAK on behalf of AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors (WALCZAK, WITOLD) (Entered: 01/14/2026)	Jan. 14, 2026	Jan. 14, 2026
20	ANSWER to Complaint together with Opposition to Application for an Order to Show Cause by THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile, # 2 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 1 - 12.08.2023 EEOC Charge, # 3 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 2 - Penn 04.16.2024 Position Statement, # 4 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 3 - Andrea Lucas 03.05.2025 Press Release, # 5 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 4 - 03.27.2025 EEOC Request for Information, # 6 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 5 - 04.28.2025 Letter from D. Adegbile to EEOC, # 7 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 6 - 05.22.2025 Letter from D. Adegbile to EEOC, # 8 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 7 - 05.16.2025 EEOC Subpoena PA-25-04, # 9 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 8 - 07.23.2025 EEOC Subpoena PA-25-07, # 10 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 9 - 07.30.2025 Petition to Revoke or Modify PA-25-07, # 11 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 10 - 09.02.2025 EEOC Determination Re. Petition to Revoke or Modify PA-25-07, # 12 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 11 - 09.23.2025 Letter from D. Adegbile to EEOC, # 13 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 12 - 09.26.2025 Letter from D. Adegbile to EEOC, # 14 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 13 - 11.19.2025 AAUP-Penn Executive Committee Statement, # 15 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 14 - 11.20.2025 Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia Statement, # 16 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 15 - 11.21.2025 Penn Hillel and MEOR Penn Statement, # 17 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 16 - 11.24.2025 ACE President Statement, # 18 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 17 - 11.25.2025 Association for Jewish Studies Statement, # 19 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 18 - 12.10.2025 Penn Faculty Senate Resolution, # 20 Declaration of Rabbi Rick Fox, # 21 Declaration of Rabbi Gabriel Greenberg, # 22 Declaration of Rabbi Menachem Schmidt, # 23 Declaration of Sarah Estey, # 24 Declaration of Hikaru Kozuma, # 25 Certificate of Service)(Adegbile, Debo) (Entered: 01/20/2026) 1 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile View on RECAP 2 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 1 - 12.08.2023 EEOC Charge View on PACER 3 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 2 - Penn 04.16.2024 Position Statement View on PACER 4 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 3 - Andrea Lucas 03.05.2025 Press Release View on PACER 5 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 4 - 03.27.2025 EEOC Request for Information View on PACER 6 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 5 - 04.28.2025 Letter from D. Adegbile to EE View on PACER 7 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 6 - 05.22.2025 Letter from D. Adegbile to EE View on PACER 8 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 7 - 05.16.2025 EEOC Subpoena PA-25-04 View on PACER 9 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 8 - 07.23.2025 EEOC Subpoena PA-25-07 View on RECAP 10 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 9 - 07.30.2025 Petition to Revoke or Modify View on PACER 11 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 10 - 09.02.2025 EEOC Determination Re. Petit View on PACER 12 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 11 - 09.23.2025 Letter from D. Adegbile to E View on PACER 13 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 12 - 09.26.2025 Letter from D. Adegbile to E View on PACER 14 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 13 - 11.19.2025 AAUP-Penn Executive Committe View on PACER 15 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 14 - 11.20.2025 Jewish Federation of Greater View on PACER 16 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 15 - 11.21.2025 Penn Hillel and MEOR Penn St View on PACER 17 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 16 - 11.24.2025 ACE President Statement View on PACER 18 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 17 - 11.25.2025 Association for Jewish Studi View on PACER 19 Declaration of Debo P. Adegbile Ex. 18 - 12.10.2025 Penn Faculty Senate Resoluti View on PACER 20 Declaration of Rabbi Rick Fox View on PACER 21 Declaration of Rabbi Gabriel Greenberg View on PACER 22 Declaration of Rabbi Menachem Schmidt View on PACER 23 Declaration of Sarah Estey View on PACER 24 Declaration of Hikaru Kozuma View on PACER 25 Certificate of Service View on PACER	Jan. 20, 2026	Jan. 20, 2026 Clearinghouse
21	ANSWER to Complaint Opposition to Application for an Order to Show Cause by AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors.(HAMERMESH, MATTHEW) (Entered: 01/20/2026)	Jan. 20, 2026	Jan. 20, 2026 RECAP
22	MOTION for Pro Hac Vice of Sam Ackerman ( Filing fee $ 75 receipt number APAEDC-18907326.) filed by Penn Faculty Alliance to Combat Antisemitism.Pro Hac Vice Application.(KELLY, KEVIN) (Entered: 01/20/2026)	Jan. 20, 2026	Jan. 20, 2026
23	MOTION for Pro Hac Vice for Robert Kelner ( Filing fee $ 75 receipt number APAEDC-18907378.) filed by Penn Faculty Alliance to Combat Antisemitism..(KELLY, KEVIN) (Entered: 01/20/2026)	Jan. 20, 2026	Jan. 20, 2026
24	MOTION for Pro Hac Vice of Noam Kutler ( Filing fee $ 75 receipt number APAEDC-18907402.) filed by Penn Faculty Alliance to Combat Antisemitism..(KELLY, KEVIN) (Entered: 01/20/2026)	Jan. 20, 2026	Jan. 20, 2026
25	MOTION for Pro Hac Vice for Evan D. Parness ( Filing fee $ 75 receipt number APAEDC-18907415.) filed by Penn Faculty Alliance to Combat Antisemitism..(KELLY, KEVIN) (Entered: 01/20/2026)	Jan. 20, 2026	Jan. 20, 2026
26	MOTION for Pro Hac Vice for Benjamin Rolsma ( Filing fee $ 75 receipt number APAEDC-18907426.) filed by Penn Faculty Alliance to Combat Antisemitism..(KELLY, KEVIN) (Entered: 01/20/2026)	Jan. 20, 2026	Jan. 20, 2026
27	MOTION to File Amicus Brief (Unopposed) filed by Penn Faculty Alliance to Combat Antisemitism.. (Attachments: # 1 Brief, # 2 Text of Proposed Order)(KELLY, KEVIN) (Entered: 01/20/2026) 1 Brief View on RECAP 2 Text of Proposed Order View on PACER	Jan. 20, 2026	Jan. 20, 2026
28	RESPONSE in Opposition re 14 MOTION to Intervene as Defendants filed by U.S. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION. (LAWRENCE, DEBRA) (Entered: 01/20/2026)	Jan. 20, 2026	Jan. 20, 2026 RECAP
29	NOTICE of Appearance by Ariel Shapell on behalf of AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors (Shapell, Ariel) (Entered: 01/21/2026)	Jan. 21, 2026	Jan. 21, 2026
30	Consent MOTION to File Amicus Brief filed by PUBLIC CITIZEN.Brief, Proposed Order. (Attachments: # 1 Brief Proposed Amicus Brief, # 2 Text of Proposed Order Proposed Order)(Davy, Jim) (Entered: 01/21/2026) 1 Brief Proposed Amicus Brief View on RECAP 2 Text of Proposed Order Proposed Order View on PACER	Jan. 21, 2026	Jan. 21, 2026
31	ORDER GRANTING 22 23 24 25 26 MOTIONS FOR PRO HAC VICE ADMISSIONS OF SAMUEL ACKERMAN, ROBERT KELNER, NOAM KUTLER, EVAN D. PARNESS AND BENJAMIN ROLSMA. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 1/21/26. 1/21/26 ENTERED AND COPIES E-MAILED. (va) (Entered: 01/21/2026)	Jan. 21, 2026	Jan. 21, 2026
32	MOTION for Pro Hac Vice for Amanda Shanor ( Filing fee $ 75 receipt number APAEDC-18917188.) filed by AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors.Certificate of Service.(WALCZAK, WITOLD) (Entered: 01/23/2026)	Jan. 23, 2026	Jan. 23, 2026
33	ORDER THAT AMICUS PENN FACULTY ALLIANCE TO COMBAT ANTISEMITISM'S CONSENT MOTION FOR LEAVE TO FILE AMICUS BRIEF 27 IS GRANTED. THE AMICUS BRIEF (DKT. NO.27-1) IS DEEMED FILED AS OF 1/20/26. AMICUS PUBLIC CITIZEN'S CONSENT MOTION TO FILE AS AMICUS CURIAE SUPPORTING RESPONDENT 30 IS GRANTED. THE AMICUS BRIEF (DKT. NO. 30-1) IS DEEMED FILED AS OF 1/21/26.SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 1/23/26.1/23/26 ENTERED & E-MAILED.(fdc) (Entered: 01/23/2026)	Jan. 23, 2026	Jan. 23, 2026
34	ORDER THAT THE INTERVENOR DEFENDANTS' 32 MOTION FOR THE PRO HAC VICE ADMISSION OF AMANDA SHANOR, ESQ. IS GRANTED. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 1/23/26.1/26/26 ENTERED & E-MAILED.(fdc) (Entered: 01/26/2026)	Jan. 23, 2026	Jan. 23, 2026
35	REPLY to Response to Motion re 14 MOTION to Intervene as Defendants filed by AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors. (HAMERMESH, MATTHEW) (Entered: 01/26/2026)	Jan. 26, 2026	Jan. 26, 2026 RECAP
36	RESPONSE TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE by U.S. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Exhibit 1)(LAWRENCE, DEBRA) (Entered: 01/26/2026) 1 Exhibit Exhibit 1 View on PACER	Jan. 26, 2026	Jan. 26, 2026
37	MEMORANDUM AND OPINION. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 2/3/26. 2/3/26 ENTERED & E-MAILED.(fdc) (Entered: 02/03/2026)	Feb. 3, 2026	Feb. 3, 2026 Clearinghouse
38	MEMORANDUM AND ORDER THAT THE PROPOSED INTERVENORS' MOTION TO INTERVENE 14 IS GRANTED. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED THAT THE INTERVENORS' MOTION TO SEAL 15 IS DENIED. THE INTERVENORS SHALL FILE UNREDACTED VERSIONS OF EXHIBITS A AND B TO DKT. NO.14 ON OR BEFORE FRIDAY, 2/6/26. THE EEOC SHALL RESPOND TO THE INTERVENORS' ANSWER IN OPPOSITION 21 ON OR BEFORE FRIDAY, 2/13/26. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 2/3/26. 2/3/26 ENTERED & E-MAILED.(fdc) (Entered: 02/03/2026)	Feb. 3, 2026	Feb. 3, 2026
39	ORDER THAT AN ORAL ARGUMENT ON THE APPLICATION FOR ENFORCEMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SUBPOENA 1 FILED BY U.S. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION HAS BEEN SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, 3/10/26 AT 10:00 AM IN COURTROOM 11A BEFORE DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 2/5/26. 2/5/26 ENTERED & E-MAILED.(fdc) (Entered: 02/05/2026)	Feb. 5, 2026	Feb. 5, 2026 RECAP
40	PRAECIPE TO SUBSTITUTE UNREDACTED EXHIBIT by AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A - AAJR Declaration)(HAMERMESH, MATTHEW) (Entered: 02/06/2026) 1 Exhibit A - AAJR Declaration View on PACER	Feb. 6, 2026	Feb. 6, 2026
41	MOTION TO WITHDRAW REDACTED DECLARATION AND SUBSTITUTE NEW DECLARATION, filed by AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors.Memorandum of Law and Certificate of Service. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum of Law in Support, # 2 Text of Proposed Order, # 3 Exhibit 1 - JLSA Declaration)(HAMERMESH, MATTHEW) Modified on 2/6/2026 (va). (Entered: 02/06/2026) 1 Memorandum of Law in Support View on PACER 2 Text of Proposed Order View on PACER 3 Exhibit 1 - JLSA Declaration View on PACER	Feb. 6, 2026	Feb. 6, 2026
42	ORDER GRANTING 41 MOTION TO WITHDRAW AND SUBSTITUTE. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 2/10/26. 2/10/26 ENTERED AND COPIES E-MAILED.(va) (Entered: 02/10/2026)	Feb. 10, 2026	Feb. 10, 2026
43	Memorandum of Law in Opposition to Intervenors' Answer to Order to Show Cause by U.S. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION. (LAWRENCE, DEBRA) (Entered: 02/11/2026)	Feb. 11, 2026	Feb. 11, 2026 RECAP
44	MOTION for Leave to File a Surreply filed by AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors.Proposed Surreply and Certificate of Service. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Surreply, # 2 Text of Proposed Order)(HAMERMESH, MATTHEW) (Entered: 02/18/2026) 1 Proposed Surreply View on PACER 2 Text of Proposed Order View on PACER	Feb. 18, 2026	Feb. 18, 2026
45	ORDER GRANTING 44 MOTION FOR LEAVE TO FILE SURREPLY. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 2/19/26. 2/20/26 ENTERED AND COPIES E-MAILED.(va) (Entered: 02/20/2026)	Feb. 20, 2026	Feb. 20, 2026
46	INTERVENORS' SUR-REPLY. (va) Modified on 2/20/2026 (va). (Entered: 02/20/2026)	Feb. 20, 2026	Feb. 20, 2026
47	Minute Entry for proceedings held before DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT. Oral Argument (Courtroom 11-A) held on 3/10/26. (mas) (Entered: 03/10/2026)	March 10, 2026	March 10, 2026
48	MOTION for Pro Hac Vice Admission of Olivia P. Greene ( Filing fee $ 75 receipt number APAEDC-19069702.) filed by THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA.Proposed Order, Motion Form and Movant's Statement, Sponsor's Statement, Certificate of Service.(BURKE, SEAN) (Entered: 03/12/2026)	March 12, 2026	March 12, 2026
49	ORDER GRANTING 48 MOTION FOR PRO HAC VICE ADMISSION OF OLIVIA P. GREENE. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 3/13/26. 3/13/26 ENTERED AND COPIES E-MAILED. (va) (Entered: 03/13/2026)	March 13, 2026	March 13, 2026
50	MOTION for Leave to File Supplemental Brief in Opposition to Application for an Order to Show Cause filed by THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA.. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Proposed Supplemental Brief, # 2 Text of Proposed Order)(WAXMAN, SETH) (Entered: 03/16/2026) 1 Exhibit Proposed Supplemental Brief View on RECAP 2 Text of Proposed Order View on RECAP	March 16, 2026	March 16, 2026 RECAP
51	ORDER THAT UPON CONSIDERATION OF PENN'S MOTION FOR LEAVE TO FILE A SUPPLEMENTAL BRIEF IN SUPPORT OF ITS OPPOSITION (DKT. NO. 50 ), THE MOTION IS GRANTED. PENN'S SUPPLEMENTAL BRIEF (DKT. NO 50 -1) SHALL BE DEEMED FILED AS OF MARCH 16. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 03/19/2026.03/20/2026 ENTERED AND COPIES E-MAILED.(nd) (Entered: 03/20/2026)	March 19, 2026	March 19, 2026
52	TRANSCRIPT of ORAL ARGUMENT held on 3/10/26, before Judge GERALD J. PAPPERT. Transcript may be viewed at the court public terminal or purchased through the Court Reporter/Transcriber before the deadline for Release of Transcript Restriction. After that date it may be obtained through PACER. Audio Operator: Carl Hauger. Transcribed By: Michael T. Keating. Redaction Request due 4/13/2026. Redacted Transcript Deadline set for 4/23/2026. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 6/22/2026. (va) (Entered: 03/24/2026)	March 23, 2026	March 23, 2026
53	Notice of Filing of Official Transcript with Certificate of Service re 52 Transcript - PDF,, 3/24/26 Entered and Copies Emailed. (va) (Entered: 03/24/2026)	March 23, 2026	March 23, 2026
54	MEMORANDUM SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 3/31/26. 3/31/26 ENTERED AND COPIES E-MAILED.(va) (Entered: 03/31/2026)	March 31, 2026	March 31, 2026 Clearinghouse
55	ORDER GRANTING 1 APPLICATION FOR ENFORCEMENT AS FOLLOWS: PENN SHALL COMPLY WITH REQUESTS 19 IN SUBPOENA NO. PA 25-07 ON OR BEFORE FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2026. WITH RESPECT TO REQUEST 2, PENN NEED NEITHER REVEAL ANY EMPLOYEES AFFILIATION WITH A SPECIFIC JEWISH-RELATED ORGANIZATION, NOR PROVIDE INFORMATION REGARDING MEOR, PENN HILLEL AND THE CHABAD LUBAVITCH HOUSE. SIGNED BY DISTRICT JUDGE GERALD J. PAPPERT ON 3/31/26. 3/31/26 ENTERED AND COPIES E-MAILED. (va) (Entered: 03/31/2026)	March 31, 2026	March 31, 2026 RECAP
56	NOTICE OF APPEAL as to 54 Memorandum and/or Opinion, 55 Order (Memorandum and/or Opinion), by THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. Filing fee $ 605, receipt number APAEDC-19163577. (WAXMAN, SETH) (Entered: 04/13/2026)	April 13, 2026	April 13, 2026
57	MOTION to Stay Pending Appeal filed by THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA.Memorandum, Certificate of Service. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support, # 2 Proposed Order)(WAXMAN, SETH) (Entered: 04/13/2026) 1 Memorandum in Support View on RECAP 2 Proposed Order View on PACER	April 13, 2026	April 13, 2026
58	STIPULATION and Proposed Briefing Schedule by THE TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. (WAXMAN, SETH) (Entered: 04/13/2026)	April 13, 2026	April 13, 2026 RECAP
60	NOTICE OF APPEAL as to 54 Memorandum and/or Opinion, 55 Order (Memorandum and/or Opinion), by AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors. Filing fee $ 605, receipt number APAEDC-19172020. (HAMERMESH, MATTHEW) (Entered: 04/15/2026)	April 15, 2026	April 15, 2026
61	MOTION to Stay Pending Appeal filed by AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS, American Academy of Jewish Research, Jewish Law Students Association of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, Penn Ascociation of Senior and Emeritus Faculty, University of Pennsylvania chapters of the American Association of University Professors.Memorandum of Law and Certificate of Service. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum of Law in Support, # 2 Text of Proposed Order)(HAMERMESH, MATTHEW) (Entered: 04/15/2026) 1 Memorandum of Law in Support View on PACER 2 Text of Proposed Order View on PACER	April 15, 2026	April 15, 2026

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Case Details

State / Territory:

Pennsylvania

Case Type(s):

Public Accommodations/ Contracting/ Organizational Discrimination

Special Collection(s):

Trump Administration 2.0: Litigation and Investigations Involving the Government

Key Dates

Filing Date: Nov. 18, 2025

Case Ongoing: Yes

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

The plaintiff in this case is the the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Plaintiff Type(s):

EEOC Plaintiff

Public Interest Lawyer: No

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: No

Class Action Outcome: Not sought

Defendants

State

The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania

Defendant Type(s):

College/University

Case Details

Causes of Action:

Title VII (including PDA), 42 U.S.C. § 2000e

Other Dockets:

Eastern District of Pennsylvania 2:25-cv-06502

Available Documents:

Complaint (any)

Trial Court Docket

Outcome

Prevailing Party: None Yet / None

Relief Sought:

Injunction

Relief Granted:

None yet

Source of Relief:

None yet

Issues

General/Misc.:

Other

Recommended Citation

Case Summary of Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania, Civil Rights Litig. Clearinghouse, https://clearinghouse.net/case/47778/ (last updated 4/10/2026).