Although an investigation into workplace misconduct led to his resignation, Archie Nelson had an otherwise exemplary employment history in admission and financial aid at the Miami University Hamilton campus.

According to Nelson’s personnel file, received by the JournalNews from the university’s Office of Equity and Equal Opportunity, his most recent evaluation in August 2011 commended him for his accomplishments in “adapting to changing technology, shifting demographics, personnel changes and financial aid revisions.”

“The results have been increased enrollment and improved customer service,” said the evaluation, signed by Robert H. Rusbosin, the regional associate dean of students and Nelson’s supervisor, and G. Michael Pratt, dean of regional campuses.

According to Daniel Hall, former dean of the Hamilton campus, Nelson “was instrumental in the enrollment growth of the campus” as a counselor and an administrator.

“He connected to students,” Hall said. “He was dynamic and created an energy and excitement about this campus when he visited high schools.”

Nelson’s final evaluation commended him for “a very high degree of personal motivation that resulted in a highly energetic team of dedicated staff members. You definitely inspired not only your staff but also many of your colleagues and certainly many prospective students. Excellent job!”

Nelson began working for Miami University Hamilton in 1994 as an admissions counselor, worked his way up the organization and was promoted to be regional director of admission and financial aid in 2010.

An unsigned recommendation in his personnel file described him as “a dynamic team leader.”

“He has guided and mentored his staff of young professionals along with his highly experienced support staff in providing customer service to prospective traditional and nontraditional students,” it said.

However, a university investigation into Nelson’s behavior with his co-workers dated Feb. 14 was sufficient for “appropriate disciplinary action.”

No action was taken, however, because his resignation ended the process, according to Miami University spokeswoman Claire Wagner.

The report focused on the allegations of a student services technician whose name was redacted in the document, but was based on interviews with “multiple witnesses from both the Hamilton and Middletown campuses” and Nelson.

The report describes inappropriate comments and sexual innuendos.

Nelson was placed on administrative leave Feb. 6 and resigned in March.

He will remain on the university payroll until June 30, the end of the fiscal year, but will work on projects from home and not report to the office.

The report concluded that there were 16 specific actions that violated the university’s policy that prohibits harassment and discrimination.

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2188 or rjones@coxohio.com.