DE false 0001459417 0001459417 2023-11-16 2023-11-16

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 8-K

 

 

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported):

November 16, 2023

 

 

2U, INC.

(EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)

 

 

DELAWARE

(STATE OF INCORPORATION)

 

001-36376   26-2335939

(COMMISSION

FILE NUMBER)

 

(IRS EMPLOYER

ID. NUMBER)

 

7900 Harkins Road

Lanham, MD

  20706
(ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)   (ZIP CODE)

(301) 892-4350

(REGISTRANT’S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE)

 

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

 

Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 

Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class

 

Trading
Symbol

 

Name of each exchange

on which registered

Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share   TWOU   The Nasdaq Global Select Market

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

 

 

 


Item 5.02

Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers.

Executive and Board Transitions

On November 17, 2023, 2U, Inc. (the “Company”) announced that Christopher “Chip” J. Paucek, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors (the “Board”), will be departing from the role of Chief Executive Officer and resigning as a member of the Board, effective as of November 16, 2023 (the “Transition Date”) but will continue as an employee of the Company until December 15, 2023 (the “Separation Date”). In connection with Mr. Paucek’s departure, beginning on the Separation Date, he will be eligible for severance payments and benefits in accordance with the terms of the Company’s Severance Pay and Change in Control Plan (as amended), which is disclosed as Exhibits 10.13 and 10.13.1 to the Company’s Annual Report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022.

The Company also announced on November 17, 2023 that the Board appointed Paul S. Lalljie, the Company’s current Chief Financial Officer, to succeed Mr. Paucek as Chief Executive Officer of the Company and as a member of the Board, effective as of the Transition Date. In connection with his appointment as Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Lalljie will no longer serve as the Company’s principal accounting officer.

In addition, on November 16, 2023, Matthew J. Norden, the Company’s current Chief Legal Officer, was appointed to the role of Chief Financial Officer, effective as of the Transition Date. Mr. Norden will also continue in his role as Chief Legal Officer of the Company. The Company also announced on November 17, 2023 that Heather Hoffert, currently Senior Vice President, Accounting, will assume the role of Principal Accounting Officer, effective as of the Transition Date.

Biographical and other information about Mr. Lalljie and Mr. Norden can be found in the section of the Company’s 2023 Proxy Statement, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 18, 2023, titled “Our executive officers”, which is incorporated herein by reference. Mr. Lalljie brings to the Board significant expertise scaling cost-effective business models, driving operational efficiencies and improving processes, and focusing on profitable revenue growth.

Prior to joining the Company in December 2021 as Senior Vice President, Accounting, Ms. Hoffert, age 51, served in various senior roles at Neustar, Inc., including Vice President, Finance from August 2016 to December 2021 and Director, SEC Financial Reporting from September 2008 to August 2016.

On November 17, 2023, the Company issued a press release in connection with the foregoing transitions. A copy of the press release is furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to this report on Form 8-K.

Employment Letter Agreements

In connection with the foregoing transitions, the Company has entered into employment letter agreements with each of Mr. Lalljie (the “Lalljie Employment Letter Agreement”) and Mr. Norden (the “Norden Employment Letter Agreement”), each dated as of November 16, 2023.

Pursuant to the terms of the Lalljie Employment Letter Agreement, Mr. Lalljie will be eligible to receive an annual base salary of $750,000, an annual bonus with a target amount equal to 115% of his annual base salary, beginning in calendar year 2024, an annual equity grant with a target grant date fair value in an amount determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board (the “Committee”), and to participate in the retirement, health and welfare plans generally made available to other executive officers of the Company. In addition, Mr. Lalljie will participate in the Company’s Severance Pay and Change in Control Plan as a Tier I Participant.

Pursuant to the terms of the Norden Employment Letter Agreement, Mr. Norden will be eligible to receive an annual base salary of $575,000, an annual bonus with a target amount equal to 100% of his annual base salary, beginning in calendar year 2024, an annual equity grant with a target grant date fair value in an amount determined by the Committee, and to participate in the retirement, health and welfare plans generally made available to other executive officers of the Company.

The foregoing descriptions of the Lalljie Employment Letter Agreement and the Norden Employment Letter Agreement are qualified in their entirety by reference to the text of the Lalljie Employment Letter Agreement and the Norden Employment Letter Agreement, which are attached hereto as Exhibits 10.1 and 10.2, respectively, and incorporated herein by reference.

Separation, Consulting and Release Agreement

In connection with Mr. Paucek’s transition to an advisory role at the Company, the Company has entered into a Separation, Consulting and Release Agreement with Mr. Paucek, dated as of November 16, 2023 (the “Separation, Consulting and Release Agreement”), pursuant to which Mr. Paucek will provide consulting services to the Company commencing on the Separation Date and continuing until April 3, 2025 (the “Consulting Period”). As consideration for the consulting services, Mr. Paucek will be eligible to receive a monthly consulting fee equal to $20,000 and his equity awards that are outstanding as of the Separation Date will continue to vest during the Consulting Period, and, upon expiration of the Consulting Period, subject to his re-execution of a general release of claims, a cash payment in an amount of $200,000. In addition, the Separation, Consulting and Release Agreement further provides for post-termination restrictive covenants, including non-competition and non-solicitation restrictions that will continue until April 3, 2025.

The foregoing description of the Separation, Consulting and Release Agreement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the Separation, Consulting and Release Agreement, which is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.3, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 9.01

Financial Statements and Exhibits.

 

(d)

Exhibits

 

Exhibit Number

  

Exhibit Description

10.1    Employment Letter Agreement, dated November 16, 2023, between Paul S. Lalljie and 2U, Inc.
10.2    Employment Letter Agreement, dated November 16, 2023, between Matthew J. Norden and 2U, Inc.
10.3    Separation, Consulting and Release Agreement, dated November 16, 2023, between Christopher J. Paucek and 2U, Inc.
99.1    Press Release, dated November 17, 2023, “2U, Inc. Announces Leadership Transition”
104    Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document).

 


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

 

    2U, Inc.
November 17, 2023     By:  

/s/ Matthew J. Norden

      Matthew J. Norden
      Chief Financial Officer and Chief Legal Officer

Exhibit 10.1

 

LOGO

November 16, 2023

Paul S. Lalljie

c/o 2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road

Lanham, MD 20706

Paul, we are excited about you becoming the next Chief Executive Officer of 2U, Inc. (“2U”). This employment letter (this “Letter”) contains the terms of your continued employment with 2U and any termination arrangements thereafter. This Letter shall supersede and replace in its entirety that certain offer letter, by and between you and 2U, dated as of October 10, 2019 (the “Prior Offer Letter”).

As of November 16, 2023 (your “Promotion Date”), you will serve as the Chief Executive Officer of 2U. In this position, you will report directly to the Board of Directors of 2U (the “Board of Directors”). Your primary office location will remain located in 2U’s office in Lanham, Maryland, subject to domestic and international travel as required in connection with your duties.

Base Salary

As of your Promotion Date, your regular annual base salary will be $750,000 USD, subject to annual review for increase (but not decrease) by the compensation committee of the Board of Directors (the “Compensation Committee”). Your annual base salary will be paid semi-monthly in accordance with 2U’s standard payroll practices and subject to all deductions and withholdings required by applicable law. Your position is a full-time position and is classified as “exempt” for federal and state wage and hour purposes.

Annual Bonus

For each calendar year during your employment, beginning in the calendar in which your Promotion Date occurs, you will be eligible to receive an annual bonus (the “Annual Bonus”) with a target amount equal to 115% of your annual base salary during that calendar year (the “Target Bonus”). The exact percentage of the Annual Bonus, and whether it is earned, will be determined in accordance with the 2U bonus plan in effect for executive officers of 2U for the applicable calendar year, as determined by the Compensation Committee. Please note that, the Annual Bonus is not guaranteed and will only be paid according to the terms of the bonus plan for the applicable calendar year.

 

2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road | Lanham, MD 20706


LOGO

 

Annual Equity Award

During your employment with 2U, you will remain eligible to participate in all long-term cash and equity incentive plans and programs generally applicable to other executive officers of 2U as in effect from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans and programs. For each calendar year during your employment with 2U beginning with calendar year 2024, subject to approval by the Compensation Committee, your annual equity award will have a target grant date value in an amount determined annually in the sole discretion of the Compensation Committee and will be granted in such form(s) and with a vesting schedule and other terms and conditions (excluding number of covered shares and performance criteria) consistent with those applicable generally to grants to other executive officers.

Restrictive Covenant Agreement; Severance

The validity of this Letter and your employment hereunder is contingent upon continued compliance with the Employee Intellectual Property, Non-Competition, and Non-Solicitation Agreement (the “Restrictive Covenant Agreement”) and the execution of additional covenants as 2U may require. As of your Promotion Date, you will be eligible to participate in the 2U Severance Pay and Change in Control Plan in accordance with its terms as a Tier I Participant. Notwithstanding anything in this Letter to the contrary, except as expressly provided in the Restrictive Covenant Agreement, the Severance Pay and Change in Control Plan or required by applicable law, your right to any compensation or benefits from 2U or its subsidiaries will cease upon the termination of your employment for any reason. Upon termination of your employment for any reason, you will be deemed to have resigned from all offices and directorships, if any, then held with 2U or any of its subsidiaries.

Outside Activities

You shall devote substantially all of your working time and efforts to the business and affairs of 2U (which shall include service to its affiliates, if applicable) and shall not engage in outside business activities. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we recognize that you desire to serve as a board member of one or more for-profit businesses unrelated to 2U concurrent with your 2U employment. Subject to prior notice to and approval by the Board of Directors (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed), you will be permitted to join up to two (2) outside boards of for-profit businesses, subject to compliance with the Restrictive Covenant Agreement and provided that such board service (a) does not materially interfere with the performance of your duties and responsibilities to 2U and (b) does not create a conflict of interest. You may also join or continue to serve on the boards of not-for-profit organizations, subject, in each case, to conditions (a) and (b) set forth in the immediately preceding sentence.

Clawback Provisions

Any amounts payable under this Letter or by 2U generally will be subject to 2U policy (whether in existence as of your Promotion Date or later adopted) established by the Board of Directors and/or the Compensation Committee and applicable to all executive officers of 2U and providing for clawback or recovery of amounts that were paid to you. 2U will make any determination for clawback or recovery in accordance with such policy and in accordance with any applicable law or regulation or the applicable rules of any stock exchange on which the 2U’s capital stock is listed.

 

2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road | Lanham, MD 20706


LOGO

 

Employee Benefits

As a full-time employee of 2U, you will remain eligible to participate in the employee benefit plans that are made available by 2U from time to time that are generally provided to 2U’s executive officers, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. You will remain eligible for unlimited paid-time off in accordance with 2U’s applicable paid-time off policy, as may be in effect from time to time.

You will remain eligible for reimbursement by 2U for all reasonable and necessary business expenditures incurred by you and timely submitted for reimbursement by you in accordance with 2U’s applicable policies, as may be in effect from time to time. In addition, you will remain eligible for all other fringe benefits and other benefit programs and policies that are generally provided to 2U’s executive officers, subject to the terms and conditions of such programs and policies, as may be in effect from time to time.

Indemnification; D&O Coverage

2U will indemnify you and hold you harmless against and in respect to any and all actions, suits, proceedings, claims, demands, judgments, costs, expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees), losses, and damages resulting from your good faith performance of your duties and obligations with 2U, in any case, to the same extent that 2U indemnifies its other executive officers. 2U agrees to maintain a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy covering you to the same extent that 2U provides such coverage for its other executive officers.

At-Will Employment

Please understand your employment with 2U is “at-will”. This means that either you or 2U may terminate your employment relationship with or without “cause,” and with or without prior notice, at any time. This Letter does not constitute a contract of employment for any specific period of time, but creates only an “employment at will” relationship. The “at-will” nature of your employment relationship may only be altered by a signed writing of the Board of Directors or its duly authorized designee.

Section 409A

The intent of the parties is that the payments provided hereunder comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“Section 409A”), to the extent subject thereto. 2U makes no representation that any or all of the payments described in this Letter will be exempt from or comply with Section 409A and makes no undertaking to preclude Section 409A from applying to any such payment.

 

2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road | Lanham, MD 20706


LOGO

 

Withholding; Deductions

2U shall be entitled to withhold or deduct from any amounts payable under this Letter and the Restrictive Covenant Agreement any federal, state, local or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which 2U is required to withhold or deduct.

This Letter, along with the Restrictive Covenant Agreement and the exhibits, hereto and thereto, contain our complete agreement, and supersede and prior agreements (including, without limitation, the Prior Offer Letter) or undertakings, whether written or oral, regarding the terms and conditions of your employment.

Governing Law

This Letter will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Maryland without regard to its conflicts of laws doctrine. By signing this Letter, you consent to the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal or state courts sitting in Maryland for the resolution of all disputes between the parties under this Letter.

Modification

This Letter may not be altered, modified or amended, nor may any provision of this Letter be waived, except by written instrument signed by, with respect to an amendment to this Letter, the parties hereto, and with respect to the waiver of any provision contained herein, the waiving party.

Assignment

You hereby agree that 2U may assign this Letter, in whole or in part, to a third party. This Letter shall be binding upon, and inure to the benefit of, 2U, and its successors and assigns. You may not assign your rights or obligations under this Letter without the prior written consent of 2U which, in 2U’s sole discretion, may be withheld.

Counterparts

This Letter may be executed in two or more counterparts, all of which taken together shall constitute one instrument.

 

2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road | Lanham, MD 20706


LOGO

 

Electronic Signature

A signed copy of this Letter delivered by DocuSign, e-mail or other means of electronic transmission shall be deemed to have the same legal effect as delivery of an original signed copy of this Letter.

You agree to observe and comply in all material respects with the written rules and policies of 2U as adopted or amended by 2U from time to time and as delivered or made available to you in writing.

We look forward to changing lives while having fun with you. #NOBACKROW

Sincerely,

 

/s/ Matthew J. Norden

Matthew J. Norden

I accept this offer of continued employment with 2U and agree to the terms and conditions set forth in this Letter.

 

  Date: November 16, 2023     Signature:   /s/ Paul S. Lalljie

 

2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road | Lanham, MD 20706

Exhibit 10.2

 

LOGO

November 16, 2023

Matthew J. Norden

c/o 2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road

Lanham, MD 20706

Matt, we are excited about you becoming the next Chief Financial Officer of 2U, Inc. (“2U”). This employment letter (this “Letter”) contains the terms of your continued employment with 2U and any termination arrangements thereafter.

As of November 16, 2023 (your “Promotion Date”), you will serve as the Chief Financial Officer of 2U. In this position, you will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer of 2U. Your primary office location will remain located in 2U’s office in Lanham, Maryland, subject to domestic and international travel as required in connection with your duties.

Base Salary

As of your Promotion Date, your regular annual base salary will be $575,000 USD, subject to annual review for increase (but not decrease) by the compensation committee (the “Compensation Committee”) of the Board of Directors of 2U (the “Board of Directors”). Your annual base salary will be paid semi-monthly in accordance with 2U’s standard payroll practices and subject to all deductions and withholdings required by applicable law. Your position is a full-time position and is classified as “exempt” for federal and state wage and hour purposes.

Annual Bonus

For each calendar year during your employment, beginning in the calendar in which your Promotion Date occurs, you will be eligible to receive an annual bonus (the “Annual Bonus”) with a target amount equal to 100% of your annual base salary during that calendar year (the “Target Bonus”). The exact percentage of the Annual Bonus, and whether it is earned, will be determined in accordance with the 2U bonus plan in effect for executive officers of 2U for the applicable calendar year, as determined by the Compensation Committee. Please note that, the Annual Bonus is not guaranteed and will only be paid according to the terms of the bonus plan for the applicable calendar year.

Annual Equity Award

During your employment with 2U, you will remain eligible to participate in all long-term cash and equity incentive plans and programs generally applicable to other executive officers of 2U as in effect from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans and programs. For each calendar year during your employment with 2U beginning with calendar year 2024, subject to approval by the Compensation Committee, your annual equity award will have a target grant date value in an amount determined annually in the sole discretion of the Compensation Committee and will be granted in such form(s) and with a vesting schedule and other terms and conditions (excluding number of covered shares and performance criteria) consistent with those applicable generally to grants to other executive officers.

 

2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road | Lanham, MD 20706


LOGO

 

Restrictive Covenant Agreement; Severance

The validity of this Letter and your employment hereunder is contingent upon continued compliance with the Employee Intellectual Property, Non-Competition, and Non-Solicitation Agreement (the “Restrictive Covenant Agreement”) and the execution of additional covenants as 2U may require. As of your Promotion Date, you will continue to be eligible to participate in the 2U Severance Pay and Change in Control Plan in accordance with its terms as a Tier II Participant. Notwithstanding anything in this Letter to the contrary, except as expressly provided in the Restrictive Covenant Agreement, the Severance Pay and Change in Control Plan or required by applicable law, your right to any compensation or benefits from 2U or its subsidiaries will cease upon the termination of your employment for any reason. Upon termination of your employment for any reason, you will be deemed to have resigned from all offices and directorships, if any, then held with 2U or any of its subsidiaries.

Outside Activities

You shall devote substantially all of your working time and efforts to the business and affairs of 2U (which shall include service to its affiliates, if applicable) and shall not engage in outside business activities. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we recognize that you desire to serve as a board member of one or more for-profit businesses unrelated to 2U concurrent with your 2U employment. Subject to prior notice to and approval by the Board of Directors (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed), you will be permitted to join up to two (2) outside boards of for-profit businesses, subject to compliance with the Restrictive Covenant Agreement and provided that such board service (a) does not materially interfere with the performance of your duties and responsibilities to 2U and (b) does not create a conflict of interest. You may also join or continue to serve on the boards of not-for-profit organizations, subject, in each case, to conditions (a) and (b) set forth in the immediately preceding sentence.

Clawback Provisions

Any amounts payable under this Letter or by 2U generally will be subject to 2U policy (whether in existence as of your Promotion Date or later adopted) established by the Board of Directors and/or the Compensation Committee and applicable to all executive officers of 2U and providing for clawback or recovery of amounts that were paid to you. 2U will make any determination for clawback or recovery in accordance with such policy and in accordance with any applicable law or regulation or the applicable rules of any stock exchange on which the 2U’s capital stock is listed.

Employee Benefits

As a full-time employee of 2U, you will remain eligible to participate in the employee benefit plans that are made available by 2U from time to time that are generally provided to 2U’s executive officers, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. You will remain eligible for unlimited paid-time off in accordance with 2U’s applicable paid-time off policy, as may be in effect from time to time.

You will remain eligible for reimbursement by 2U for all reasonable and necessary business expenditures incurred by you and timely submitted for reimbursement by you in accordance with 2U’s applicable policies, as may be in effect from time to time. In addition, you will remain eligible for all other fringe benefits and other benefit programs and policies that are generally provided to 2U’s executive officers, subject to the terms and conditions of such programs and policies, as may be in effect from time to time.

 

2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road | Lanham, MD 20706


LOGO

 

Indemnification; D&O Coverage

2U will indemnify you and hold you harmless against and in respect to any and all actions, suits, proceedings, claims, demands, judgments, costs, expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees), losses, and damages resulting from your good faith performance of your duties and obligations with 2U, in any case, to the same extent that 2U indemnifies its other executive officers. 2U agrees to maintain a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy covering you to the same extent that 2U provides such coverage for its other executive officers.

At-Will Employment

Please understand your employment with 2U is “at-will”. This means that either you or 2U may terminate your employment relationship with or without “cause,” and with or without prior notice, at any time. This Letter does not constitute a contract of employment for any specific period of time, but creates only an “employment at will” relationship. The “at-will” nature of your employment relationship may only be altered by a signed writing of the Board of Directors or its duly authorized designee.

Section 409A

The intent of the parties is that the payments provided hereunder comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“Section 409A”), to the extent subject thereto. 2U makes no representation that any or all of the payments described in this Letter will be exempt from or comply with Section 409A and makes no undertaking to preclude Section 409A from applying to any such payment.

Withholding; Deductions

2U shall be entitled to withhold or deduct from any amounts payable under this Letter and the Restrictive Covenant Agreement any federal, state, local or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which 2U is required to withhold or deduct.

This Letter, along with the Restrictive Covenant Agreement and the exhibits, hereto and thereto, contain our complete agreement, and supersede and prior agreements or undertakings, whether written or oral, regarding the terms and conditions of your employment.

Governing Law

This Letter will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Maryland without regard to its conflicts of laws doctrine. By signing this Letter, you consent to the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal or state courts sitting in Maryland for the resolution of all disputes between the parties under this Letter.

Modification

This Letter may not be altered, modified or amended, nor may any provision of this Letter be waived, except by written instrument signed by, with respect to an amendment to this Letter, the parties hereto, and with respect to the waiver of any provision contained herein, the waiving party.

 

2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road | Lanham, MD 20706


LOGO

 

Assignment

You hereby agree that 2U may assign this Letter, in whole or in part, to a third party. This Letter shall be binding upon, and inure to the benefit of, 2U, and its successors and assigns. You may not assign your rights or obligations under this Letter without the prior written consent of 2U which, in 2U’s sole discretion, may be withheld.

Counterparts

This Letter may be executed in two or more counterparts, all of which taken together shall constitute one instrument.

Electronic Signature

A signed copy of this Letter delivered by DocuSign, e-mail or other means of electronic transmission shall be deemed to have the same legal effect as delivery of an original signed copy of this Letter.

You agree to observe and comply in all material respects with the written rules and policies of 2U as adopted or amended by 2U from time to time and as delivered or made available to you in writing.

We look forward to changing lives while having fun with you. #NOBACKROW

Sincerely,

 

/s/ Paul S. Lalljie

Paul S. Lalljie

I accept this offer of continued employment with 2U and agree to the terms and conditions set forth in this Letter.

 

  Date: November 16, 2023     Signature:   /s/ Matthew J. Norden

 

2U, Inc.

7900 Harkins Road | Lanham, MD 20706

Exhibit 10.3

SEPARATION, CONSULTING AND RELEASE AGREEMENT

This SEPARATION, CONSULTING AND RELEASE AGREEMENT (together with any Exhibits hereto, this “Agreement”) is entered into by and between 2U, Inc. (the “Company”) and Christopher Paucek (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”), dated as of November 16, 2023 (the “Effective Date”).

WHEREAS, Executive, as of the date set forth below, hereby enters into this Agreement with and for the benefit of the Company;

WHEREAS, Executive participates in the 2U, Inc. Severance Pay and Change in Control Plan, effective as of February 14, 2020, and as amended on April 24, 2020 (the “Plan”) as a Tier I Participant;

WHEREAS, as of the Effective Date, Executive shall no longer serve as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and shall resign as a member of the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) but will continue as an employee of the Company until December 15, 2023 (the “Separation Date”);

WHEREAS, Executive’s employment with the Company will terminate on the Separation Date, and such termination of employment will constitute a Qualifying Termination pursuant to, and in accordance with, the terms of the Plan;

WHEREAS, the effectiveness of this Agreement pursuant to Section 14(a) is a condition precedent to Executive receiving the payments and benefits set forth in this Agreement and the Plan; and

WHEREAS, capitalized terms and phrases used but not defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Plan.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Company and Executive, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged and agreed, and intending to be legally bound, hereby agree as follows:

1. Resignation of Employment. The Parties agree that Executive’s employment will terminate effective as of the Separation Date. Effective as of the Effective Date, Executive hereby resigns from all positions Executive holds as an officer, director, employee or otherwise with respect to the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates. Upon request of the Company, Executive agrees to execute any additional documents and take any additional actions as may be necessary or desirable to effectuate the foregoing.

2. Consulting Period.

(a) Provided that this Agreement becomes effective pursuant to Section 14(a), for the period of time beginning on the Separation Date through April 3, 2025 (such date, the “Consulting Period End Date”, and the period of time beginning on the Separation Date and ending on the Consulting Period End Date, the “Consulting Period”), Executive shall provide consulting services to the Company as an independent contractor, to provide transition services and work on special projects as requested by the Company (the “Services”). Executive shall be available to provide such


Services as reasonably requested by the Company at mutually agreed upon times; provided, however, that the Parties reasonably expect that the performance of the Services shall not require Executive to provide more than twenty percent (20%) of the average level of services rendered by Executive to the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates during the thirty (36) month period immediately preceding the Separation Date and the provision of Services shall not preclude Executive from performing other employment or consulting duties for other entities; subject to any Restrictive Covenants (as defined below). During the Consulting Period, the Company shall pay Executive a monthly consulting fee of $20,000 (prorated for partial months).

(b) During the Consulting Period, the Parties agree that Executive is and shall act as an independent contractor under this Agreement, and not as an employee of the Company. Subject only to such specific limitations as are contained in this Agreement, the manner, means, details or methods by which Executive performs the Services shall be solely within Executive’s discretion. Executive acknowledges and agrees that Executive shall be solely responsible for all income, business or other taxes such as social security and unemployment payable as a result of fees paid for the Services under this Section 2.

(c) The Consulting Period may be terminated by the Company for Cause (as defined below). If the Company terminates the Consulting Period for Cause, Executive’s outstanding equity awards shall immediately cease vesting as of the effective date of Executive’s termination of employment.

(d) For purposes of this Agreement, “Cause” means any of the following: (i) Executive’s willful misconduct in performance of Executive’s duties to the Company, where such willful misconduct has resulted in material damage to the Company; (ii) Executive’s willful commission of any act of fraud or embezzlement with respect to the Company; (iii) Executive’s conviction of a felony or plea of guilty or nolo contendere with respect thereto which is reasonably likely to adversely and significantly affect the business of the Company; (iv) Executive’s willful material breach of any material provision of this Agreement or any other written agreement between the Executive and the Company; (v) Executive’s breach of any of the terms of the Restrictive Covenant Agreement (as defined below); or (vi) Executive’s willful failure to comply with lawful directives of the Board, which has caused material damage to the Company. The Company shall not have Cause to terminate the Consulting Period unless (i) the Board reasonably determines in good faith that a “Cause” condition under such clauses has occurred; (ii) the Board notifies Executive in writing of the occurrence of the Cause condition within sixty (60) days of the Board’s first becoming aware of such occurrence; (iii) Executive fails to cure any such Cause condition, to the extent curable, within thirty (30) days of such notice (the “Cause Cure Period”); (iv) notwithstanding such efforts, the Cause condition continues to exist; and (v) the Board terminates the Consulting Period within sixty (60) days after the end of the Cause Cure Period. If Executive cures the Cause condition during the Cause Cure Period, Cause shall be deemed not to have occurred. Moreover, for purposes of this Agreement, no act or failure to act by Executive shall be considered “willful” unless done or omitted to be done by Executive in bad faith and without reasonable belief that Executive’s action or omission was in the best interests of the Company. Any act, or failure to act, by Executive based upon express direction from the Board shall be conclusively presumed to be done, or omitted to be done, by Executive in good faith and in the best interests of the Company. Executive shall be provided with a

 

2


reasonable opportunity to be heard (either live or telephonically) by a quorum of the Board (excluding Executive) concerning the Company’s decision to terminate the Consulting Period for Cause within fifteen (15) days after written notice from the Company, unless delay is caused by the Company (in which case it shall be as promptly as practicable), and Executive shall be permitted to have counsel present during such meeting.

3. Payments and Benefits.

(a) Provided that this Agreement becomes effective in accordance with Section 14(a) of this Agreement and Executive complies with his obligations under this Agreement and the Plan, Executive’s termination of employment hereunder shall constitute a Qualifying Termination effective as of the Separation Date and Executive shall, as a Tier I Participant, be entitled to the severance amounts, payments and benefits provided under Section 2.2 or Section 2.3 (as applicable) of the Plan in accordance with the terms of, and at the time(s) provided in, the Plan; provided, however, if this Agreement does not become effective in accordance with Section 14(a), Executive shall not be entitled to the payments and benefits set forth in this Section 3. Each of Executive’s outstanding equity or equity-based awards issued to him pursuant to the Company’s equity incentive plans and corresponding award agreements shall be treated in accordance with their terms as of the Separation Date.

(b) Provided that this Agreement becomes effective in accordance Section 14(b) of this Agreement, Executive complies with Executive’s obligations under this Agreement and the Consulting Period is not terminated for Cause, the Company agrees to pay Executive $183,333.33, which amount shall be paid to Executive as soon as administratively practicable after this Agreement becomes effective in accordance with Section 14(b) and if the time provided therein spans two calendar years, the payment shall be made in the second calendar year.

(c) Provided that this Agreement becomes effective in accordance with Section 14(a) of this Agreement and Executive complies with his obligations under this Agreement and subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable equity incentive plan and corresponding award agreements, any equity awards held by Executive as of the date hereof shall continue to be eligible to vest during the Consulting Period; provided, that, in the event that the Consulting Period is terminated by the Company for Cause, any such equity awards shall cease to vest as of the date the Consulting Period is terminated.

4. Release.

(a) Executive, on behalf of Executive and Executive’s heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns, hereby voluntarily irrevocably and unconditionally releases the Company, its parent entities, affiliates, subsidiaries, predecessors, successors and assigns, and all of their present and former shareholders, owners, partners, directors, board of managers, officers, employees, agents, attorneys and anyone acting on their behalf (collectively, the “Company Releasees”) of and from any and all actions, causes of action, claims, charges, complaints, compensation, costs, demands, damages, debts, obligations, expenses, injuries, liabilities, and losses of whatsoever nature, known or unknown (collectively, “Claims”) which Executive or Executive’s

 

3


heirs, executors, administrators, successors or assigns ever had, now have or hereafter can, will or may have (either directly, indirectly, derivatively or in any other representative capacity) by reason of any matter, fact or cause whatsoever against the Company Releasees, arising from the beginning of time through the date upon which Executive signs this Agreement, including, but not limited to, (a) any such Claims relating in any way to Executive’s employment relationship with the Company or any other Company Releasee or the termination of such relationship, whether based on contract, understanding, promise, tort, public policy, common law or any other basis, and (b) any such Claims arising under any federal, local or state statute or regulation, including, but not limited to, the following (all statutory references include any amendments and implementing regulations thereto): the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967; the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act; 42 U.S.C. § 1981; the Federal Civil Rights Acts of 1866, 1870, 1871, 1964, 1972, 1988, and 1991; Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; the National Labor Relations Act; the Labor Management Relations Act, 1947; the Equal Pay Act of 1963; the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985; the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990; the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993; the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act; the Fair Labor Standards Act; the Employee Retirement Income Security Act; any applicable Executive Order Programs; and any other applicable federal, state, or local laws; including but limited to Title 20 of the State Government Article of the Maryland Annotated Code, the Maryland Fair Employment Practices Act, the Health Care Worker Whistleblower Protection Act, the Maryland False Claims Act, the Maryland Parental Leave Act, the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act, Title 17 of the Public Local Laws of Prince George’s County. THIS IS A GENERAL RELEASE OF CLAIMS. Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to release or impair or any rights that cannot be waived under applicable law, including as to unemployment compensation or workers’ compensation benefits, or Employee’s right to report possible violations of federal law or regulation to any governmental agency or entity in accordance with the provisions of and rules promulgated under Section 21F of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or Section 806 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or any other whistleblower protection provisions of state or federal law or regulation. Executive represents and warrants that Executive has no complaints, charges, or lawsuits pending against the Company Releasees. Executive understands and agrees that nothing in this Release is intended to, or shall, interfere with or affect Executive’s right to participate or cooperate in any federal, state, or local administrative or government agency (such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) or Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”)) proceeding or investigation or to file a charge or Claim with such an agency. Executive further covenants and agrees that, except to the extent prohibited by applicable law, neither Executive nor Executive’s heirs, executors, administrators, successors, or assigns will be entitled to any personal recovery or relief in any proceeding of any nature whatsoever against the Company Releasees arising out of any of the matters released in this Agreement.

(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Agreement does not limit Executive’s right to receive an award for information provided to the SEC. In addition, this Agreement does not limit or release Executive’s rights (a) to benefits accrued and vested prior to the Separation Date under any employee benefit plan, policy or arrangement maintained by the Company, (b) to the Accrued Amounts (as defined in the Plan), (c) as a shareholder or in respect of outstanding equity awards pursuant to the applicable equity plan and award agreement, (d) to indemnification under contract, applicable corporate law, the by-laws or certificate of incorporation of the Company, any Company benefit plan, or as an insured under any director’s and officer’s liability insurance policy, or (e) under this Agreement.

 

4


(c) Executive acknowledges and agrees that the Company and the Company Releasees have fully satisfied any and all obligations owed to Executive arising out of or relating to Executive’s employment with the Company, and no further sums, payments or benefits are owed to Executive by the Company or any of the Company Releasees arising out of or relating to Executive’s employment with the Company, except as expressly provided in this Agreement.

5. Continuing Obligations. Executive represents and warrants that he has fully complied with the Employee Intellectual Property, Non-Competition, and Non-Solicitation Agreement, dated as of March 31, 2022, which is attached as Exhibit A (the “Restrictive Covenant Agreement”) and Executive agrees that he will continue to comply with the Restrictive Covenant Agreement, as modified below, during and after the Consulting Period. Executive and the Company agree that during the Consulting Period and thereafter the terms of the Restrictive Covenant Agreement are modified as follows: (a) the restrictions set out in Section 7 (“Non-Interference and Non-Solicitation of Employees”) will not extend to former employees of the Company whose employment was terminated without cause or to employees of the Company who did not develop or possess Confidential Information (as defined in the Restrictive Covenant Agreement) during such employee’s employment with the Company; (b) the restrictions set out in Section 5(a) (“Non-Competition During and After Employment”) will not apply with respect to any action previously consented to in writing by the Board (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld); provided, that “Competitor,” for purposes of Section 5(a) of the Restrictive Covenant Agreement, will include, as of the date hereof, a list of companies set forth separately in writing; and (c) the restrictions set out in Section 5(a) (“Non-Competition During and After Employment”) will terminate on April 3, 2025.

6. Permitted Disclosures.

(a) Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1833(b), Executive understands that he will not be held criminally or civilly liable under any Federal or State trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret of the Company that (i) is made (1) in confidence to a Federal, State, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or Executive’s attorney and (2) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (ii) is made in a complaint or other document that is filed under seal in a lawsuit or other proceeding. Executive understands that if he files a lawsuit for retaliation by the Company for reporting a suspected violation of law, he may disclose the trade secret to Executive’s attorney and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding if he (I) files any document containing the trade secret under seal, and (II) does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order. Nothing in this Agreement, or any other agreement that Executive has with the Company, is intended to conflict with 18 U.S.C. § 1833(b) or create liability for disclosures of trade secrets that are expressly allowed by such section. Further, nothing in this Agreement or any other agreement that Executive has with the Company shall prohibit or restrict Executive from making any voluntary disclosure of information or documents related to any violation of law to any governmental agency or legislative body, or any self-regulatory organization, in each case, without advance notice to the Company.

 

5


(b) Further, nothing in this Agreement or any other agreement that Executive has with the Company shall: (i) prohibit Executive from disclosing information about unlawful acts in the workplace (including sexual harassment); (ii) prohibit Executive from voluntarily communicating with an attorney retained by Executive; (iii) prohibit Executive from initiating communications directly with, responding to any inquiries from, providing testimony before, reporting possible violations of law or regulation to, or filing a claim or assisting with an investigation directly with, a law enforcement agency, governmental agency or legislative body, or any self-regulatory organization, including the EEOC, the Maryland Civil Rights Commission, the Prince George’s County Office of Human Rights or any state or local commission on human rights or similar entity, the Department of Justice, the SEC, the Congress, or any agency inspector general; (iv) prohibit or restrict Executive from making any voluntary disclosure of information or documents related to any violation of law to a law enforcement agency, governmental agency or legislative body, or any self-regulatory organization, in each case, without advance notice to the Company; (v) prohibit Executive from exercising any rights as set forth in Section 4 hereof (including the right to recover a SEC whistleblower award pursuant to Section 21F of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) or (vi) limit Executive from filing or disclosing any facts necessary to receive unemployment insurance, Medicaid or other public benefits to which Executive is entitled.

7. Non-Disparagement by the Executive. As a material inducement to the Company to enter into this Agreement, Executive agrees not to make or publish, or cause to be made or published in any manner or form (including through print or electronic media or through a third party) any statements or comments that disparage, injure or diminish (or that a reasonable person would expect would have the effect of disparaging, injuring or diminishing, he reputation or goodwill of the Company, its employees, agents, directors, officers, subsidiaries, affiliates or University partners including, without limitation, the making of any disparaging or derogatory statements to any current or former employee of the Company, to any contractor or vendor of the Company, to any current or prospective university partner(s) of the Company, to any applicant for employment with the Company, and to any member of the print or broadcast media (“print” and “broadcast” to be interpreted with the broadest possible definitions, including online), and/or to otherwise attempt to injure or interfere with the Company’s business. The Company agrees to instruct its executive officers to refrain from making or publishing, or cause to be made or published, any public statements that are disparaging of Executive; provided, that the Company and its executive officers shall not be prohibited from responding fully and accurately to any request, question or inquiry in connection with legal process. Nothing in this paragraph (or otherwise in this Agreement) is intended or shall be construed to limit Section 6 hereof, suggest or imply that Executive or the Company cannot provide truthful information in response to a government investigation, a court and/or administrative agency-issued subpoena, or other valid legal process, or otherwise limit Executive in the exercise any protected rights that cannot be waived by agreement.

8. Cooperation. Executive agrees that, upon reasonable notice and without the necessity of the Company obtaining a subpoena or court order, Executive shall provide reasonable cooperation in connection with any suit, action or proceeding (or any appeal from any suit, action or proceeding), and any investigation and/or defense of any claims asserted against the Company or any of its affiliates, that relates to events occurring during the Executive’s employment with the Company as to which Executive may have relevant information (including but not limited to furnishing relevant information

 

6


and materials to the Company or its designee and/or providing testimony at depositions and at trial), provided that the Company agrees to reimburse Executive for documented out-of-pocket expenses reasonably incurred in connection with any such cooperation, and provided that any such cooperation shall be scheduled to the extent reasonably practicable so as not to unreasonably interfere with Executive’s business or personal affairs.

9. Return of Property. Executive represents that he has returned or has agreed with the Company to a plan to return, as of the expiration or earlier termination of the Consulting Period, to the Company all Company property which was in Executive’s possession, custody or control, including, but not limited to, documents, files, forms, customer information and lists, confidential business information, keys, and Company-issued credit cards. The provisions of this Section 9 are in addition to, and not in derogation of, Executive’s obligations pursuant to Section 9 of the Restrictive Covenants Agreement (“Returning Company Documents”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, Executive shall be permitted to retain any computer equipment such as laptop computers and printers, cell phones, and similar handheld devices; provided that the Company is given full access to such devices to ensure that all Confidential Information has been removed.

10. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware without regard to the application of any choice-of-law rules that would result in the application of another state’s laws. The Parties irrevocably agree that the competent courts of the State of Delaware are to have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any disputes which may arise out of or in connection with this Agreement.

11. Legally Authorized. Each Party represents that it is competent to enter into this Agreement and has the requisite authority to enter into this Agreement. No Party has agreed or promised to do or omit to do any act or thing not herein set forth, and the Parties further understand that a purpose of this Agreement is to compromise and terminate all Claims of whatever nature, known or unknown, held by Executive.

12. Joint Preparation. This Agreement shall be deemed to have been prepared jointly by the Parties. Any uncertainty or ambiguity existing herein shall not be interpreted against any Party.

13. No Admission. Executive understands that this Agreement shall not in any way be construed as an admission by the Company or any other Company Releasee of any wrongdoing whatsoever against Executive. The Company specifically disclaims any liability for any wrongdoing against Executive and denies any such wrongdoing, on the part of itself, or its employees, its agents, or any of the other Company Releasees.

14. Knowing and Voluntary Agreement/Advice of Counsel/Revocation Period.

(a) Executive acknowledges and agrees that Executive is signing this Agreement, including the release set forth in Section 4 hereof, in exchange for good and valuable consideration in addition to anything of value to which Executive is otherwise entitled. Executive hereby acknowledges that he has been advised by the Company in writing to seek the advice of independent counsel of Executive’s choosing in connection with this Agreement.

 

7


Executive has had the opportunity to consult with counsel of his own choosing prior to executing this Agreement. Executive understands and agrees that by executing this Release, Executive does not waive rights or claims that may arise after the date this Release is executed. Executive acknowledges that Executive is acting of his own free will, that Executive has been afforded a reasonable time to read and review the terms of the Agreement, especially the release set forth in Section 4 herein, and that Executive is voluntarily entering into this Agreement with full knowledge of its provisions and effects. Executive intends that this Agreement shall not be subject to any claim for duress. Executive may not execute this Agreement prior to the Separation Date. Executive further acknowledges that Executive has twenty-one (21) days from the date on which Executive is presented with this Agreement within which to consider this Agreement, and that if Executive decides to execute this Agreement before the twenty-one (21) day period has expired, Executive does so voluntarily and waives the opportunity to use the full review period. Executive also acknowledges that Executive has seven (7) days following his execution of this Agreement to revoke acceptance of the Agreement. This Agreement will not become effective until the eighth (8th) calendar day after the date it is executed. If Executive does not execute this Agreement, or if Executive revokes Executive’s consent within such seven (7) calendar day period, the Company’s offer of the payments and benefits set forth in Section 3(a) above shall be null and void, and Section 4 above shall be of no force or effect. Executive acknowledges that, absent the execution of this Agreement, Executive would not be entitled to the payments and benefits set forth in Section 3(a).

(b) Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, Executive must again re-execute this Agreement following the Consulting Period End Date in order to be entitled to the payments and benefits set forth in Section 3(b). Executive acknowledges that Executive has been given at least twenty-one (21) days following the Consulting Period End Date within which to consider this Agreement, and that if Executive decides to execute this Agreement before the twenty-one (21) day period has expired, Executive does so voluntarily and waives the opportunity to use the full review period; provided, however, that Executive may not re-execute this Agreement prior to the Consulting Period End Date. Executive also acknowledges that Executive has seven (7) days following his re-execution of this Agreement to revoke his re-execution of this Agreement. This Agreement will not become effective until the eight (8th) calendar day after the date it is re-executed. If Executive does not re-execute this Agreement, or if Executive revokes Executive’s re-execution within such seven (7) calendar day period, the Company’s offer of the payments and benefits set forth in Section 3(b) above shall be null and void. Executive’s failure to re-execute this Agreement under this Section 14(b) on or within the twenty-one (21) days following the Consulting Period End Date in no way affects Executive’s prior release of claims under this Agreement. By Executive’s re-execution of this Agreement, the release set forth in Section 4 above shall be deemed to cover any Claims which Executive has, may have had, or thereafter may have against the Company or any other Releasee by reason of any matter, cause or thing whatsoever arising from the beginning of time until the date on which Executive re-executes this Agreement.

15. Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges and agrees that he remains subject to the restrictive covenants contained in (a) this Agreement, (b) the Plan, (c) any equity award documents, (d) any employment agreement between Executive and the Company and (e) the Restrictive Covenant Agreement (collectively, the “Restrictive Covenants”) and that Executive has complied with such Restrictive Covenants and will continue to do so following the date hereof, to the extent required by the Restrictive Covenants, as modified by this Agreement.

 

8


16. Representations. Executive represents and agrees that: Executive has disclosed to the Company any information Executive has which Executive believes concerns any fraudulent or unlawful conduct involving the Company or any Company Releasee, or any conduct that violates the Company’s policies; Executive has not formally or informally raised or asserted any claims of sexual harassment or sexual abuse against the Company or any Company Releasee, and represents and acknowledges that Executive has no such claims; Executive is receiving valuable consideration in exchange for executing this Agreement, and agrees that Executive will not argue that the Agreement, in whole or in part, is not supported by sufficient consideration; and Executive has no known work-related injuries, illnesses, or occupational diseases arising out of or related to Executive’s employment with the Company.

17. Section 409A. The intent of the Parties is that the payments provided hereunder comply with, or will be exempt from, Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, to the extent subject thereto. Section 7.8 of the Plan is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

18. Miscellaneous.

(a) This Agreement sets forth the entire agreement of the Parties in respect of Executive’s resignation of employment and, except as explicitly stated herein, supersedes all prior agreements, promises, covenants, arrangements, communications, representations or warranties, whether oral or written, by either Party or any officer, employee or representative of either Party hereto with respect to such subject matter. This Agreement shall not be modified or amended except by written agreement of Executive and the Company.

(b) The provisions of this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of, and be binding upon, the Parties and their respective successors and assigns. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to give any rights to any third parties to enforce or benefit under the terms of this Agreement; provided, that nothing in this Section 18(b) shall limit or impair the rights that the Company Releasees have to benefit from and enforce the terms of this Agreement (including the release in Section 4).

(c) No waiver of any one or more of the terms, conditions or obligations of this Agreement, and no partial waiver thereof, shall be construed as a waiver of any succeeding breach of any of such terms, conditions or obligations or of any of the other terms, conditions or obligations of this Agreement. No failure or delay by either Party at any time to enforce one or more of the terms, conditions or obligations of this Agreement shall constitute a waiver of such terms, conditions or obligations or shall preclude such Party from requiring performance by the other Party at any time.

(d) The headings of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and neither constitute a part of this Agreement nor affect in any way the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement. When a reference in this Agreement is made to a Section, such reference shall be to a Section of this Agreement unless otherwise indicated.

 

9


(e) This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, including emailed, .pdf-ed or telecopied facsimiles, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

(f) Executive agrees that the Company would suffer irreparable harm if he were to breach, or threaten to breach, any material provision of this Agreement and that the Company would by reason of such breach, or threatened breach, be entitled to seek injunctive relief in a court of appropriate jurisdiction, without the need to post any bond. This section shall not, however, diminish the right of the Company to claim and recover damages in addition to injunctive relief.

(g) In the event that any one or more of the provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby. Moreover, if any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement shall be held to be excessively broad as to duration, activity or subject, such provisions shall be construed by limiting and reducing them so as to be enforceable to the maximum extent allowed by applicable law. Furthermore, a determination in any jurisdiction that this Agreement, in whole or in part, is invalid, illegal or unenforceable shall not in any way affect or impair the validity, legality or enforceability of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction.

(h) Any payments provided for herein shall be reduced by any amounts required to be withheld by the Company under applicable law then in effect.

(i) The Company shall be entitled to withhold (or to cause the withholding of) the amount, if any, of all taxes of any applicable jurisdiction required to be withheld by an employer with respect to any amount paid to Executive hereunder. The Company, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall make all determinations as to whether it is obligated to withhold any taxes hereunder and the amount thereof.

(j) Subject to Section 5 hereof, Executive shall be permitted to, but under no obligation to, seek other employment during the Consulting Period. There shall be no offset against amounts due to Executive under this Agreement on account of any remuneration or other benefit earned or received by Executive after the Separation Date or otherwise.

[signature page to follow]

 

10


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties, acknowledging that they are acting of their own free will, have caused the execution of this Agreement as of this day and year written below. The Parties also acknowledge that they have had a sufficient opportunity to read and review the terms of this Agreement and that they have each received the advice of their respective counsel with respect hereto.

 

Execution pursuant to Section 14(a)    
Christopher Paucek   2U, Inc.
/s/ Christopher Paucek   By:   /s/ Paul S. Lalljie
  Name:   Paul S. Lalljie
  Title:   Chief Financial Officer
Dated: November 16, 2023   Dated: November 16, 2023

 

Re-execution pursuant to Section 14(b)
Christopher Paucek
 
Dated:                                                                                         

 

11


Exhibit A

Employee Intellectual Property, Non-Competition, and Non-Solicitation Agreement

Exhibit 99.1

2U, Inc. Announces Leadership Transition

Paul Lalljie Appointed CEO, Joins Board of Directors; Matthew Norden Appointed CFO

Christopher “Chip” Paucek Departing as CEO and Member of the Board of Directors, Becoming Special Advisor

LANHAM, Maryland – November 17, 2023 – 2U, Inc. (Nasdaq: TWOU), a leading online education platform company, today announced a change of leadership to spearhead the next stage of its evolution as it focuses on improving operational efficiency and delivering profitable growth and cash flow. The Board of Directors has appointed Paul Lalljie, the company’s current Chief Financial Officer, to succeed Christopher “Chip” Paucek as Chief Executive Officer and as a member of the Board of Directors, effective immediately. Additionally, Matt Norden, the company’s Chief Legal Officer, will also assume the role of Chief Financial Officer. Paucek will remain an employee of the company through December 15, 2023, at which time he will transition to Special Advisor.

“The Board and Chip have mutually determined that this is the right time for a leadership change,” said Paul Maeder, Chair of the Board of Directors of 2U. “The Board is confident that Paul is the right person to lead the company during this next phase, continuing to pursue our ongoing strategic initiatives and spearheading new ones. We also look forward to Matt taking on greater responsibilities as Chief Financial Officer as well as continuing in his position as Chief Legal Officer. Together, Paul and Matt have nearly 15 years of experience at 2U and have the full support of the Board. They possess the right expertise and experience to lead the organization forward through this next phase.”

“Chip has been integral to the company’s evolution over his more than 15 years of service. We thank him for his leadership, vision, and immense contributions that helped build the company into the leading online education platform company that it is today,” added Maeder.

“2U’s mission to transform higher education by eliminating the ‘back row’ and broadening access to high-quality learning experiences is more important than ever,” said Lalljie. “The company led the way in bringing great universities into the digital age, and the need for our technology and services continues to grow. My commitment as CEO is to capitalize on the emerging secular tailwinds driving the future of work and education, such as job specific re-skilling and advancements in AI, while optimizing our balance sheet, driving operating efficiencies, and delivering profitable revenue growth and cash flow. I am excited to lead this business into the next chapter of its journey.”

“It has been an honor to lead such a dynamic and innovative team,” said Paucek. “This company has been a source of continuous inspiration and growth. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to its impressive legacy and am proud of what we have achieved together. Continuity of leadership is important, and Paul has been a key member of the team at 2U for more than four years. I am confident that under Paul’s leadership, the company is well positioned to take the necessary steps to deliver profitable growth in the future.”

Lalljie brings significant experience in finance management in the high-growth technology sector to his new role. Before joining 2U in 2019, he spent 18 years at Neustar, Inc., a billion-dollar information services business, where he served as CFO for nine years. During his tenure, Lalljie had global financial and operational responsibility for repositioning Neustar as an information services company.

Norden has over a decade of experience at 2U and played a leadership role in the company’s IPO in 2014 and in all subsequent capital markets and M&A activities. Prior to 2U, he was the General Counsel at TOMS Shoes, where he played an integral role in the company’s strategic planning, international expansion and business development efforts, in addition to overseeing the legal function. Prior to that, Norden was an associate in the M&A practice group in the Washington, DC office of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP.


About 2U, Inc. (Nasdaq: TWOU)

2U is a global leader in online education. Guided by its founding mission to eliminate the back row in higher education, 2U has spent 15 years advancing the technology and innovation to deliver world-class learning outcomes at scale. Through its global online learning platform edX, 2U connects more than 81 million people with thousands of affordable, career-relevant learning opportunities in partnership with 250 of the world’s leading universities, institutions, and industry experts. From free courses to full degrees, 2U is creating a better future for all through the power of high-quality online education. Learn more at 2U.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding 2U, Inc. (“2U” or the “company”). All statements in this press release that are not historical including, without limitation, those regarding future leadership and achievement of and execution on the company’s business and financial goals and strategy, are forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, assumptions and uncertainties, including those described under the heading “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, and other SEC filings. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. We do not undertake, and expressly disclaim, any duty or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement after the date of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.

Investor Relations Contact: investorinfo@2u.com

Media Contact: media@2u.com

v3.23.3
Document and Entity Information
Nov. 16, 2023
Cover [Abstract]  
Entity Incorporation State Country Code DE
Amendment Flag false
Entity Central Index Key 0001459417
Document Type 8-K
Document Period End Date Nov. 16, 2023
Entity Registrant Name 2U, INC.
Entity File Number 001-36376
Entity Tax Identification Number 26-2335939
Entity Address, Address Line One 7900 Harkins Road
Entity Address, City or Town Lanham
Entity Address, State or Province MD
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 20706
City Area Code (301)
Local Phone Number 892-4350
Written Communications false
Soliciting Material false
Pre Commencement Tender Offer false
Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer false
Security 12b Title Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share
Trading Symbol TWOU
Security Exchange Name NASDAQ
Entity Emerging Growth Company false

2U (NASDAQ:TWOU)
Historical Stock Chart
From Mar 2024 to Apr 2024 Click Here for more 2U Charts.
2U (NASDAQ:TWOU)
Historical Stock Chart
From Apr 2023 to Apr 2024 Click Here for more 2U Charts.