Florida Atlantic University reinstated two professors who had been placed on administrative leave over social‑media comments tied to the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, after an independent review found their statements were protected speech. The probe—led by a former state supreme court justice—concluded the comments were authored in a personal capacity and addressed matters of public concern, recommending reinstatement for two faculty members while a third remains on leave pending further review. The case illustrates the legal and reputational risks campuses face when responding to high‑profile political pressure: institutions must balance campus safety and professionalism with constitutional protections. Boards and general counsels should expect more litigation and increased scrutiny of investigatory processes in politically charged speech cases.