Former Deere Foundation exec sues over alleged discrimination

MOLINE, Ill. (KWQC) - A former executive at Deere and Co. is suing, saying the company discriminated against her.

Laura Eberlin, the former vice president of the Deere Foundation, says she took on extra work but didn’t get a raise when her boss resigned. Eberlin says she was demoted when she complained about fair pay for her and others to Mara Downing, a vice-president of brand and communications.

According to Eberlin’s suit, Downing retaliated against her claims of discrimination by assigning her to a new boss, David Ottavianelli. Eberlin alleges that Ottavianelli was incompetent, unethical and harassing.

In a statement to KWQC, Deere & Co. said:

We are aware of the lawsuit filed by Ms. Eberlin. While we do not comment on ongoing litigation, we disagree with the allegations and will address them through the proper legal channels.

John Deere is committed to supporting employees at every stage of their career and fostering a workplace where people can succeed. Out of respect for everyone involved, we will reserve further comment.

Eberlin resigned in November 2024 after she said things had become hopeless and her complaints were being ignored. According to the suit, Deere fired Ottavianelli days later.

Eberlin later applied to be the Foundation president but was not granted an interview.

Eberlin also alleges that Deere reached out to her new employer, the University of Iowa, and requested that Eberlin not be involved in any business involving Deere.

She is asking for a jury trial in federal court.