Students at Christian college Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego have been denied their attempt to form a school-supported Turning Point USA chapter for the third time.
In a November 5 statement to students, university president Kerry Fulcher said the Associated Student Body Board of Directors reviewed the request and voted against approving the organization. The board cited concerns about TPUSA’s Professor Watchlist, which highlights professors with a history of promoting radical left-wing ideology and targeting conservative students.
“After a formal review process guided by the ASB Constitution, a motion to establish the club was brought to a vote and the motion failed to pass,” Fulcher wrote. “Their rationale focused on concerns related to TPUSA’s Professor Watchlist. While the applicants indicated they would not participate in the watchlist, their application included phrasing that mirrors language used on TPUSA’s website in connection with it. That practice is not aligned with ASB’s purpose of fostering constructive communication and interaction between students, faculty, and administration.”
Fulcher also claimed that the students’ intent to affiliate with TPUSA Faith is not permitted under the University’s Church and Parachurch Policy.
“This policy is in place to ensure that outside churches or ministry organizations, however well-intentioned, do not duplicate efforts already being led by our campus ministry team and use university resources to advance their own programming,” Fulcher said.
“I know this decision will land differently for different people. For some, it may be deeply disappointing or raise concerns. For others, it may feel affirming or reassuring. However you view this outcome, I want to encourage us all to respond in a way that reflects Christ-centered community committed to mutual respect, thoughtful dialogue, and the dignity of one another,” he added.
