Phillip Jones, the former University of Iowa vice president for Student Services, appealed the District Court’s summary judgment ruling that dismissed his case against UI President Sally Mason and the UI, according to Monday’s court documents.

Mason fired Jones in 2008 after an investigation on his handling of a sexual-assault case came into question. Jones sued the UI and Mason for wrongful termination and defamation in June 2009, and his lawsuit claims the firing jeopardized his reputation and financial situation.

Jones’ attorney, David Dutton, said prior to the appeal that either the Iowa Supreme Court or the Court of Appeals will hear Jones’ appeal and schedule a hearing at a later date.

Court documents show Jones also appealed the District Court’s order denying his motion to compel discovery and all other adverse rulings and orders.

— by Beth Bratsos