Iowa State University fired financial aid adviser Caitlyn Spencer for celebrating Charlie Kirk's death on social media, citing policy violations.

Iowa State University fired financial aid adviser Caitlyn Spencer after she posted on social media expressing satisfaction over the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, calling it deserved and stating she was happy he was "rotting in hell." The termination, effective September 23, 2025, was confirmed by President Wendy Wintersteen, who cited violations of the Board of Regents’ free expression policy and ethical standards. The post caused significant disruption, prompting a broader investigation by the Board of Regents into similar social media comments by public university employees. Spencer, who previously signed a 2020 letter criticizing the university’s response to a controversial College Republicans tweet, has the right to appeal. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds condemned the post as "disgusting" and supported disciplinary action, emphasizing that threats and calls for violence are not protected speech. The board has directed all three public universities to review employee posts related to Kirk’s death within two weeks, balancing free speech with workplace conduct and institutional values.