A lawsuit has been filed against a prominent educational institution, alleging significant violations of civil rights and discrimination. On November 5, 2025, Jordon Groom and Grant Peterson lodged a complaint in the Eastern District Court of New York against Nassau Community College (NCC) and several of its officials, including Maria P. Conzatti, David Oyero, Charmian Smith, and Craig Wright. The plaintiffs accuse the defendants of infringing upon their First and Fourteenth Amendment rights, as well as violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other federal statutes.
The case unfolds with allegations that both Groom and Peterson were retaliated against for their outspoken criticism of NCC's policies and practices. According to the complaint, Peterson served as an Academic Senate Chair while being a registered individual with disabilities recognized by NCC's Services for Students with Disabilities Office. Despite this status, he faced threats from college officials when voicing concerns about student government elections. Peterson claims that his formal complaint regarding discriminatory treatment was dismissed without due process. Meanwhile, Groom alleges he was subjected to mandatory sensitivity training based on unfounded accusations of creating a hostile work environment.
The plaintiffs argue that these actions are part of a broader pattern of retaliation by NCC officials aimed at silencing dissenting voices within the student body. They contend that their removal from positions in student government and other disciplinary measures were executed without proper procedural safeguards. "Defendants have successfully removed Plaintiff Peterson from NCC student government without due process," states the complaint, highlighting the severity of the alleged misconduct.
Groom and Peterson seek multiple forms of relief from the court: a declaration that their constitutional rights were violated; an injunction compelling NCC to expunge any disciplinary records related to these events; damages for injuries suffered; and coverage for legal fees incurred during this litigation process.
Represented by Gregory A. Byrnes from Anderson Law PLLC, the plaintiffs are determined to hold NCC accountable for what they perceive as systematic attempts to stifle free speech and discriminate against students with disabilities. The case is being overseen by Judge [Name], under Case ID 1:25-cv-06297.
Source: 125cv06297_Groom_v_Nassau_Community_College_Complaint_Eastern_District_New_York.pdf