
Mike Shaw, a high-ranking official in Oregon’s Department of Forestry, has been placed on administrative leave following a complaint from trainer Megan Donecker. Donecker accused Shaw of focusing on merit-based hiring instead of prioritizing diversity, sparking controversy within the department.
Donecker, who was responsible for the department’s DEI program, claimed Shaw insisted on hiring “the most qualified candidates” rather than focusing on race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. Donecker’s frustration with Shaw’s hiring approach led to her filing a complaint, which resulted in Shaw being placed on leave on August 6.
The complaint also alleged that six LGBTQ+ employees did not feel safe due to the lack of discussions around pronouns. Donecker criticized the department’s work culture, labeling it an “old boys club” that hindered DEI progress.
The incident caught the attention of Gov. Tina Kotek (D-OR), who reiterated her support for DEI initiatives within state departments. Kotek emphasized the need to advance DEI efforts and ensure that complaints like Donecker’s are treated seriously.
Donecker resigned from the department in March and now works as a DEI consultant. She lives with her wife and their adopted child. She claimed that her DEI efforts were not valued at the department, leading to her decision to leave her position.
Shaw’s suspension has raised questions about the balance between merit-based hiring and diversity initiatives in public agencies. The department has not yet disclosed the full details of the investigation or Shaw’s potential return to work.