Northern Kentucky University will pay over $250,000 to former women’s basketball Head Coach Camryn Whitaker-Volz in agreement with her departure from the university.
The separation agreement, signed on April 5 by President Cady Short-Thompson and Volz, detailed that the former coach will receive $13,397 each month beginning in April and ending in October 2024. In addition to the monthly payments, the university will pay a sum of $160,765 to Volz on or before November 30, 2024.
The Northerner received Volz’s separation agreement and employment contract via an open records request on April 9. The documents can be found at the bottom of this article.
NKU made no further comment about the separation agreement.
On April 5, the university announced a “mutual agreement” with Volz for her to step down as head coach. NKU said both parties agreed it was time for a change.
Prior to this announcement, the women’s coach was investigated by NKU’s Human Resources (HR) Office after receiving allegations of racial and homophobic remarks and degradation of mental health. The university interviewed 20 individuals regarding the allegations, including players, assistant coaches and more. Volz denied such remarks and behaviors and defended her coaching style. Ultimately, HR said the coach did not violate any harassment or nondiscrimination policies.
This was not the first time Volz was investigated, however. In 2019, players filed complaints of emotional abuse and bullying from the coach. After an investigation, the university said the claims were unfounded.
Volz became NKU’s women’s basketball head coach in 2016 after spending one season at the University of Kentucky as an assistant coach.
Her employment contract in 2022 showed that her annual base salary was $156,083, with an additional $500 per month for transportation expenses and potential for bonuses.
During Volz’s eight seasons at NKU, she earned a 95-106 record for the women’s basketball team.
According to a university press release, the university is looking to hire a new coach immediately. Separation Agreement - fully executedWhitaker Camryn - Employment Contract 2022-2026