July 14, 2025
In a significant move, a prominent university has decided to return a substantial grant amounting to $643,000, which was intended for research examining the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals within church environments. This decision has sparked discussions across various communities, highlighting the complexities surrounding academic research and institutional values.
The university’s president, Linda Livingstone, communicated to the campus community that the decision to return the funding was deemed necessary for the institution’s integrity. She clarified that her concerns were not directed at the research itself but rather at the subsequent activities associated with the grant, which she felt promoted viewpoints on human sexuality that conflicted with the university’s established policies, including its Statement on Human Sexuality. As a Baptist institution, these values are particularly significant.
Livingstone emphasized the university’s commitment to maintaining the principle of academic freedom, acknowledging the delicate balance between research pursuits and institutional beliefs.
“We understand that this situation has raised concerns and confusion among many in our university community and our affiliated churches and organizations,” she stated. “This experience has served as a valuable learning opportunity for all parties involved, and we are dedicated to collaborating with our academic leaders, faculty, and research community, especially during these challenging times for higher education.”
The grant, provided by a philanthropic foundation, was aimed at facilitating research that would help churches better support women and the LGBTQ+ community. In response to the university’s decision, the foundation expressed disappointment, stating that returning the grant undermines the educational mission of the institution.
“This was a chance to fulfill the Christian obligation to support marginalized groups by developing resources and conducting vital research for faith-based communities,” the foundation remarked. “We are saddened for the professors, research fellows, and particularly the students who will receive this message from the university, which is quite clear.”
As the conversation around LGBTQ+ issues in religious contexts continues to evolve, this incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by educational institutions in navigating the intersection of faith, research, and social advocacy.