The University of Victoria has dismissed Robert Gifford, one of its longest-serving professors, following confirmed allegations of sexual harassment involving two women, including a graduate student. The decision came after a formal investigation that revealed repeated misconduct and a failure to uphold professional standards expected of senior faculty members.
Gifford, 78, was a professor at the university for 45 years and was well-known for his work in environmental psychology. He helped shape the field, attracting students worldwide to study human behavior, climate change anxiety, and the relationship between people and their surroundings. Despite his long academic career and international recognition, recent findings by the Labour Relations Board (LRB) led to his dismissal in the summer of 2024.
The LRB decisions revealed that investigators found a pattern of inappropriate conduct. The findings stated that Gifford caused “repeated harm to junior scholars” and demonstrated a “lack of accountability and understanding of his obligations as a senior scholar.” These conclusions followed a detailed review of his actions and communications with younger academics, particularly women under his professional supervision.
One of the most concerning incidents involved an email sent to a woman identified as AB, who first met Gifford as a visiting student. In 2018, Gifford invited her to co-present a paper at an international conference. However, he suggested in his message that they share a hotel room during the event. He acknowledged that such an arrangement could raise questions among colleagues but reassured her that “everything beyond the mere sharing of the room” would be “mutually decided at the time.”
The student rejected the suggestion, responding that she preferred to keep the relationship “strictly professional.” The incident, along with other complaints, was later reviewed by the investigation panel, which concluded that Gifford’s behavior crossed professional boundaries and contributed to an unsafe environment for junior researchers.
The probe also highlighted how senior academics carry added responsibility to ensure respectful and safe interactions with students and junior scholars. In this case, investigators emphasized that Gifford’s behavior showed a disregard for those obligations, despite repeated opportunities to correct his actions. His failure to take responsibility played a major role in the final decision to terminate his employment.
The dismissal marked the end of a long career. Gifford had been recognized internationally for his contributions to environmental psychology, publishing influential work on how people respond to environmental challenges such as climate change. His courses drew students from across the globe, and his research shaped public understanding of how psychology and environment intersect. Yet, the misconduct case underscored how academic achievements do not shield individuals from accountability when serious ethical violations are confirmed.
Universities across Canada have faced increasing scrutiny over how they handle complaints of harassment and misconduct. The case highlights the growing demand for accountability and the importance of protecting students and young academics from power imbalances in educational institutions. With more students speaking out against inappropriate behavior, universities are being urged to strengthen their reporting systems and disciplinary processes.
The University of Victoria has not released a detailed public statement beyond confirming that disciplinary measures were taken. However, the case has sparked discussion within academic circles about the importance of reinforcing professional boundaries, promoting safe learning environments, and ensuring that students can pursue their education without fear of harassment.
For many observers, the outcome reflects a shift in how institutions address misconduct. By dismissing a high-profile professor despite his decades of service, the university demonstrated a commitment to student safety and accountability. This case may also serve as a signal to other academic institutions to maintain zero tolerance toward harassment, regardless of a faculty member’s seniority or academic reputation.
The dismissal of Robert Gifford represents both a significant disciplinary action and a reminder of the ethical responsibilities that come with academic authority. While his work in environmental psychology remains influential, his legacy at the University of Victoria will now also be tied to the serious misconduct findings that ended his career.
