History of Hayden Barnes controversy in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 29, 2026

T. Hayden Barnes, a Valdosta State University (VSU) student, was controversially "administratively withdrawn" in May 2007 for criticizing the construction of new parking garages. VSU President Ronald Zaccari characterized Barnes's criticism as a threat, leading to his removal. Barnes filed a lawsuit in 2008, alleging a violation of his First Amendment rights. After a protracted legal battle involving multiple rulings and appeals, Barnes reached a $900,000 settlement with the university in July 2015, marking a significant victory for free speech advocates.

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Full Timeline

2005: Student Protests at Cornell University

In 2005, student protests against parking expenditures took place at other campuses, including Cornell University. Barnes' campaign did not receive support from the Valdosta student environmental group.

May 2007: Barnes Administratively Withdrawn

In May 2007, T. Hayden Barnes, a student at Valdosta State University, was administratively withdrawn for criticizing the construction of new parking garages. University President Ronald Zaccari considered Barnes's criticism threatening and deemed him a danger to the campus.

January 2008: Civil Rights Lawsuit Filed

In January 2008, T. Hayden Barnes filed a civil rights lawsuit against Valdosta State University, President Ronald Zaccari, and the Board of Regents for violation of his First Amendment and due process rights.

September 2008: VSU Added to and Removed from "Red Alert" List

In September 2008, the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE) initially added Valdosta State University (VSU) to its "Red Alert" list. Later that month, VSU was removed from the list after new free speech rules were implemented.

2008: Barnes Files Lawsuit

In 2008, T. Hayden Barnes filed a lawsuit against Valdosta State University following his administrative withdrawal.

September 8, 2010: Barnes Wins Legal Battle

On September 8, 2010, it was announced in the Valdosta Daily Times that Hayden Barnes won his legal battle against past university president Dr. Ronald Zaccari.

February 7, 2012: Zaccari Found Personally Liable

On February 7, 2012, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit decided that Zaccari may be found personally liable for violating Barnes' due process rights. Barnes' suit against the Georgia Board of Regents for breach of contract was denied by the 11th Circuit.

July 2015: Settlement Against VSU

In July 2015, after several rulings and appeals, a $900,000 settlement was reached against Valdosta State University in favor of T. Hayden Barnes, regarding the 2008 lawsuit.

July 2015: University Insurers Settle Case

In July 2015, the university's insurers settled the case for $900,000. FIRE President Greg Lukianoff commented on the responsibility of administrators in upholding student rights.