CAMDEN, NJ — A former Bergen Community College employee who claims he was fired because of his age will be allowed to continue parts of his lawsuit, while other claims have been dismissed, a federal judge ruled.
In a decision issued by U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi, the court granted in part and denied in part a motion to dismiss filed by Bergen Community College and its president, Eric Friedman. The ruling narrows the case but allows key discrimination allegations to move forward.
Termination Sparks Multi-Claim Lawsuit
The lawsuit was filed by Ralph Choonoo, who alleges he was wrongfully terminated and subjected to harassment during his employment at the college. His claims include age discrimination under both federal and New Jersey law.
Choonoo also accused the college and its president of defamation and breaching a separation agreement following his departure. Specifically, he claimed the college failed to circulate a farewell letter to colleagues, which he says was part of that agreement.
Court Reviews Case Without Opposition
This marked the second attempt by the defendants to dismiss portions of the case. Choonoo had previously been allowed to amend his complaint after an earlier dismissal.
In this latest round, Choonoo did not file a response to the motion despite being given additional time by the court. Even so, the judge reviewed the motion on its merits, as required under federal rules.
Some Claims Dismissed, Others Survive
The court dismissed certain claims, including those related to defamation and breach of contract, finding they did not meet the legal standard required to proceed.
However, the judge allowed age discrimination claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) and the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) to continue—at least in part—keeping the core of the lawsuit intact.
The ruling also addressed which claims could proceed against the college’s president individually.
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Key Points
• Judge partially dismissed lawsuit against Bergen Community College and its president
• Defamation and contract claims thrown out; discrimination claims move forward
• Plaintiff did not oppose motion, but court still reviewed case on merits
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Legal Standard Applied
In evaluating the motion, the court applied federal pleading standards requiring plaintiffs to present sufficient factual detail to support plausible claims. The judge noted that unsupported or conclusory allegations cannot survive dismissal.
Current Status
The case will proceed on the remaining claims, primarily focused on alleged age discrimination. Further proceedings will determine whether those claims have sufficient evidence to advance toward trial or resolution.