An assistant professor who has accused Emporia State University of racial discrimination has filed a federal lawsuit, accusing the school of defamation and invasion of privacy.

Melvin Hale filed the lawsuit Wednesday. He and his wife, Angelica, who are black, have been embroiled in confrontation with the university since April, when someone left a note with a racial slur in the office of Angelica Hale’s graduate assistant. They allege the dean of School of Library and Information Management did not investigate the incident and retaliated against them for complaining.

In September, the university said an investigation found no evidence of a hate crime or racial discrimination.

Melvin Hale alleges those findings damaged his reputation and portrayed him as a liar.

The university said it doesn’t comment on pending litigation.