BAY CITY — Delta College lawyers are investigating allegations that a former assistant professor was discriminated against because of her religious beliefs.

Stephanie Baiyasi, who worked for the college from July 1, 2003, through June 30 of this year, claims Delta officials failed to correct a hostile work environment created by her former boss and science department chairman David Bailey.

Baiyasi filed a lawsuit against Bailey and Delta College last week in U.S. District Court in Bay City. She is seeking an undisclosed sum in excess of $75,000.

College officials launched an investigation after being served with court papers last week, said Leanne Govitz, director of Marketing and Public Relations for the school.

“The college just received the lawsuit (Thursday) and has begun researching the facts surrounding the allegations,” said Govitz.

Baiyasi was active in campus Christian society and Bible study groups and campaigned to have creation science added to the curriculum, according to court documents.

She claims Bailey “manipulated the promotion and tenure process” to prohibit her from obtaining tenure and force her to resign, according to court files.

Govitz said she could not discuss specific personnel matters, but stated, “As is common in higher education institutions, faculty promotion and tenure at Delta is a criteria-based review process administered by professional peers.”

Tenure incorporates a due process appeal component and a standard seven-year time period, she said. Professors who fail to achieve tenure in that time no longer are eligible to teach at Delta.

Baiyasi alleges Bailey is anti-Christian and has said he wants to “crush all Christians,” whom he referred to as “bugs,” court records show.

Govitz said the college’s policy is to respect diversity.

“We are an engaging, inclusive and diverse learning organization,” said Govitz. “From our stated values, Delta takes great pride in actively promoting, advocating, respecting and valuing differences. We foster a welcoming environment of openness and appreciation for all.”

Baiyasi, a Midland County resident who has a degree in veterinary medicine, declined to be interviewed.

Bailey, a Bay County resident, could not be reached for comment.