Worker sues Brown University over PIP issued day after leave

She challenged it. According to the complaint, Brown’s HR reviewed the matter, stripped the PIP of its disciplinary nature and timeline, and converted it into an expectations memo. But scheduled follow-up meetings with senior leadership were then cancelled without explanation, the filing states, leaving her concerns unresolved.

Medical leave – and the interview that triggered a recall

The complaint alleges the worker was treated for adjustment disorder, a condition that affected her ability to think clearly, interact with others, and manage daily self-care. She took approved FMLA leave in June 2023 for about twelve weeks, and a second approved leave starting in March 2024.

During that second leave, the filing states, she applied for an internal director-level role in the Office of the Provost – after confirming with HR that she could interview while on medical leave. Brown put her through multiple rounds, including a full-day final interview on campus on May 14, 2024.

Then the story turned. According to the complaint, HR questioned how she could attend an interview while unable to perform her regular job – and told her that showing up meant she was fit to return. Brown required her back immediately, the filing alleges, despite medical documentation indicating she still needed leave.

She returned on May 20, 2024, the complaint states, to remain employed and to avoid jeopardizing the position she had interviewed for. The very next day, a former supervisor – who, according to the filing, had not directly managed her for roughly eight months – sat down with the current supervisor and HR and presented a second PIP.