Lawrence University Student Govt. Allows TPUSA Chapter to Form After Months-Long Approval Process

Photo: Lawrence University 

In late May, Lawrence University approved the formation of a Turning Point USA chapter after months of seeking campus recognition amid dissent from other students.

According to ABC 2, Patriots of Faith, a group that has existed on Lawrence’s campus since 2017, decided to form a TPUSA chapter shortly after the passing of Charlie Kirk last September. However, as it began the process of becoming a recognized student organization, a group of students began to oppose them, according to chapter leader Zach Currier.

In February, the university’s student government rejected a referendum concerning the recognition of the chapter, allowing the approval process to proceed. 

Dissenting students explained to Spectrum News their dismissiveness toward TPUSA in March. These students said they’re concerned that the organization will conflict with the university’s mission of fostering an inclusive environment and concern with overall safety on campus allegedly posed by the organization.

“Our mission is to bridge the divide on campus, coming from a place of understanding of why you believe the things you believe, and how we can find the commonalities of what we believe in,” Currier told Spectrum News.

Ultimately, student opposition was insufficient to prevent the chapter’s formation. On May 29, the Lawrence University Community Council (LUCC) allowed the chapter to form, providing the following statements in its approval of the TPUSA chapter. 

“The approval went through the standard student-led shared governance process that is used for evaluating all potential student organizations at Lawrence University,” the LUCC publicly stated. “Lawrence University is deeply committed to free speech and the open exchange of ideas. We strive to create an environment where all students feel empowered to express their beliefs and engage in respectful dialogue, without fear of ridicule or harassment. We want to express our appreciation for the diligent work, integrity, and commitment to respectful discussions from all involved in this process.”

Throughout the US, several other college TPUSA chapters have gone through the process of forming a recognized chapter, with several facing rejection from student government and administrations alike.