Samford University Refuses $3M in Baptist Funding

HOMEWOOD -- Samford University is refusing 3 million dollars from the Alabama Baptist State Convention, reportedly due to a proposed LGBT student organization at the university.

Samford’s Board of Trustees executive committee approved the decision to refuse the $3 million budget allocation late last week after consulting with state convention leaders. The move will be effective January 1.

Samford President Andrew Westmoreland says the decision serves the best interests of both the university and the state Baptist Convention. Al.com reports Westmoreland says recent tension between Samford and state convention leaders over a proposed student organization to discuss LGBT rights and issues played a role in the decision.

Back in April, Samford faculty voted to recommend approval of “Samford Together”, a student organization that would provide a forum for Samford students who want to discuss topics relating to sexual orientation and gender identity in an open-minded and accepting environment. The group still needs approval from the board of trustees to form.

http://apr.org/post/samford-refuses-3m-baptist-funding (short article)