UF Health Pediatric Chair Resigns After Misconduct Inquiry

Dr. Barbara Knox, pediatrician at UF Health Jacksonville's Child Protection Team, will resign effective August 15 after a University of Florida investigation found she created a hostile work environment, including bullying, intimidation, racially insensitive remarks, questionable promotions, and having staff perform personal tasks for compensation. The report, based on multiple employee interviews, detailed that several long-serving staff members resigned or were forced out due to her leadership. The toxic workplace reportedly undermined the team's mission to investigate child abuse cases. Knox was also involved in the high-profile Sullivan custody case, leading to further scrutiny. The investigation prompted leadership changes, with Dr. Susmita Pati becoming the new chair of Pediatrics. Knox's history of similar misconduct allegations in Wisconsin and Alaska has raised broader concerns about oversight during her hiring.