HS&S Partner Gary Phelan Files Case Involving a Former CCSU Employee Alleging Disability Discrimination After TB Diagnosis
12/16/2025Hurwitz Sagarin & Slossberg Attorney Gary Phelan was interviewed by the Hartford Courant about a case he just filed on behalf of a former Central Connecticut State University employee who alleges she was terminated because of a disability after contracting tuberculosis through workplace exposure.
Phelan represents Dragana Marosz, a longtime program specialist in CCSU’s Intensive English Language Program, who claims she contracted tuberculosis after contact with a student who had an active infection. According to the lawsuit, Marosz tested positive for latent TB in late May 2025 and was informed less than six weeks later that her employment contract would not be renewed.
“For nearly a decade Dragana Marosz was an exemplary CCSU employee who was dedicated to serving international students,” Phelan said. “Yet just six weeks after she contracted tuberculosis from a student through no fault of her own, she was cast aside. This case raises very important issues when public health intersects with the workplace.”
The lawsuit alleges CCSU discriminated against Marosz based on disability, despite her consistent record of strong performance and her ability to perform the essential functions of her position. The suit seeks lost wages and benefits, reinstatement or front pay, compensatory damages, attorney’s fees, and other relief.
Phelan, who also teaches disability law at Quinnipiac University School of Law, said the case underscores the obligations public institutions have under disability law when employees face serious medical conditions. CCSU has declined to comment on the pending litigation.