Campbell v. Columbia University

Background

Jody-Ann Campbell, appearing without a lawyer, brought state-law claims under the court’s diversity jurisdiction arising from Columbia University’s denial of her applications for a fellowship and grants to attend Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies. The court had previously allowed Campbell to proceed without prepaying filing fees.

Ruling on the Individual Defendants

Campbell asked the court to dismiss Zelon Crawford and Trudy Stapleton-Truglia from the action. The court granted that request and directed the Clerk of Court to terminate Crawford and Stapleton-Truglia as parties. Columbia University remained a defendant.

Service on Columbia University

Because Campbell was allowed to proceed without prepaying fees, the court directed the Clerk to issue a summons for Columbia University, complete a U.S. Marshals Service Process Receipt and Return form, and provide the necessary documents to the U.S. Marshals Service for service. The order states that service must occur within 90 days after the summons is issued, and that Campbell should request an extension if service is not completed within that period. Campbell was also required to notify the court in writing of any address change.

Other Orders

The Clerk was directed to mail Campbell an information package. The court certified that an appeal from this order would not be taken in good faith and denied permission to appeal without prepaying fees.

Disposition

Judge Vernon S. Broderick granted Campbell’s request to dismiss Crawford and Stapleton-Truglia, directed service of the case on Columbia University, and denied fee-free status for an appeal from the order. The opinion did not decide the merits of Campbell’s claims.