A possible civil lawsuit against Sangamon State University President Durward Long for sexual harassment might be based on Long’s attitude toward women rather than any specific incident.

SSU Student Regent Brian Hopkins said there is a possibility that SSU faculty member Pat Langley will litigate on behalf of faculty members and maybe some students concerning Long’s attitude which he said might create a “hostile environment” towards women.

Hopkins said he received a complaint from an SSU student that Long allegedly squeezed the student’s buttocks at a party on Aug. 26. However, no formal complaint has been filed.

Saturday’s Springfield State Journal Register printed a letter written by Long in which he apologized to SSU employees and students and asked that he be given another chance.

In the letter, Long said his “recollection of the evening” is “quite different” from the rumors that are circulating.

He said he acknowledges the allegations of his behavior while under the influence of alcohol “started us down the road” now taken. He said he does not “assume responsibility following that evening.”

Long is scheduled to make a public statement concerning the controversy surrounding him Tuesday at 3:30 p.m.

Hopkins said there are mixed opinions among people on campus about Long’s return Nov. 7 following a 60-day medical leave of absence during which he was treated for alcohol abuse. “It’s very controversial,” Hopkins said.

Hopkins said some faculty members circulated a welcome back petition for Long, while another faculty group circulated a petition trying to prevent Long from returning as president. Most of the SSU employees and students, however, are willing to give Long a chance, Hopkins said. “No one’s totally convinced he’s guilty (of sexual harassment).”