The Massachusetts Board of Higher Education has publicly condemned John Cox, the former president of Cape Cod Community College, following his resignation in March due to an inappropriate relationship with a female student. State Higher Education Commissioner Noe Ortega expressed appreciation for the college's Board of Trustees' actions upon learning of the allegations, which included placing Cox on leave and commissioning an external investigation. The investigation revealed that Cox, aged 63, engaged in excessive contact with a 23-year-old student he intended to mentor, sending her numerous messages and gifts over a six-month period. Although the relationship was not sexual, it caused distress to the student, prompting her to attempt to end it. Faculty members criticized the board for a lack of communication, stating that they were not adequately informed about the reasons for Cox's leave until recently. The board's first public statement came only after a records request was filed. Ortega emphasized the importance of student safety and announced that the state will collaborate with the college to review its reporting policies and improve training related to student well-being.