A multi-million dollar lawsuit has been launched against the University of Windsor over allegations that the school violated a contract with a recruiting firm.
In a statement of claim, Higher-Edge alleges the University of Windsor attempted to divert business and recruit employees, while still under contract. The firm is now seeking $23.1 million in restitution from the university.
“It’s one thing to poach people, it’s another to do so of your main supplier, when they are still under contract to supply you,” says Higher-Edge owner, Mel Broitman.
The claim is being denied by the University of Windsor. Spokesperson Holly Ward tells CTV News that the university is preparing a statement of defence, which will deny the claim and defend their staff.
The statement names several university employees, including president Alan Wildeman.
Ward says their contract with Higher-Edge ended in September. The university informed the company in early 2012 that they had no intention of renewing their contract. Ward says the decision to seek a non-exclusive model for international recruitment was made after careful assessment.
Over the past 15 years, Higher-Edge says they’ve recruited roughly 6,300 students from several countries including India, Pakistan and China. Broitman says these recruitments resulted in approximately $300 million in total revenue for the university and $750 million for the City of Windsor.
None of the allegations made in the statement have been proven in court.
