Matt Bruce Grievance Panel Decision
In November 2017 NAQT learned about allegations of serious misconduct against NAQT member Matt Bruce, concerning an incident that allegedly took place at Boston University in the late 1990s. As of June 7, 2018, despite our efforts, we have not discovered any information that substantiates the accusations that were made concerning this alleged misconduct.
In the course of our investigation, NAQT became aware of a number of inappropriate writings made by Matt Bruce on his blogs in the early 2000s. In late May 2018 NAQT assembled a grievance panel (in accordance with NAQT’s operating agreement) to produce a written report about Matt’s conduct and to decide on his future status with NAQT.
NAQT’s primary business is conducting quiz bowl tournaments, including events for high school and middle school students. Comments such as those found during the course of our investigation are absolutely unacceptable coming from anyone who represents NAQT. Those who attend NAQT events have the right to expect that our tournament staff, and especially our members, will conduct themselves in a way that is professional, respectful, and welcoming to everyone.
NAQT’s operating agreement states that
Members owe the company and each other: …the duty to represent with honor and dignity the company, all other members, and the schools which participate in NAQT events.
The grievance panel determined that Matt’s writings were not in line with this portion of the operating agreement and that NAQT could no longer meet its obligation to provide a welcoming and respectful environment for the teams that attend our tournaments—and by extension, for those who attend events that use our questions—while Matt continued as a member of our company.
Thus, following the grievance panel’s recommendation, NAQT has terminated Matt Bruce’s membership effective immediately. This includes both the termination of Matt’s entire financial interest in the company and the permanent loss of Matt’s ability to participate in the management and operations of the company in any capacity.