Students at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego faced their third rejection as they tried to form a Turning Point USA (TPUSA) chapter, with the university’s Associated Student Body (ASB) Board of Directors denying their application. The decision, communicated through an email from university President Kerry Fulcher, cited concerns over TPUSA’s Professor Watchlist, which the university claims promotes divisive language. Students, such as Luke Cole and Ginger Friess, expressed frustration, feeling that the rejection silenced their voices and suppressed conservative expression on campus.
The email highlighted the applicants’ use of language similar to TPUSA’s website regarding the Watchlist, which seeks to ‘expose and document’ professors who discriminate against conservative students. The ASB also raised concerns about the chapter’s affiliation with TPUSA Faith, an initiative described as aiming to ‘unite the Church’ and ‘eliminate wokeism.’ President Fulcher emphasized that the decision adheres to the university’s policies of fostering constructive dialogue and ensuring that campus ministry efforts are not duplicated by external religious groups.
Students like Brooklyn Stratton felt targeted and believed the denial undermined free speech, as they aimed to create a community for others who shared their concerns. Despite the rejection, the students have not given up, intending to pursue appeals and meet off-campus to continue their mission. The university’s stance on neutrality has been questioned by some students, who argue it lacks true impartiality in favoring diverse thought. The ongoing debate highlights broader tensions over free speech and ideological representation on college campuses.