/// Ideas > Breaking News Comments [ 0 ] Likes [ 1 ] Grad Student's Beliefs Could Lead to Expulsion Stephanie Martin August 5, 2010 Augusta, Ga. -- Graduate student Jennifer Keeton is fighting back against her university, which says she must reconsider her ethical convictions. Keeton, a 24-year-old who's getting her master's degree in school counseling, says Augusta State University is targeting her because of her Christian beliefs about sexuality and gender identity. In classroom discussions and written assignments, Keeton has expressed her view that homosexuality is a "lifestyle," not a "state of being." She also believes sexual behavior is the "result of accountable personal choice." Now the university says Keeton must go through a remediation program or face dismissal from the counseling program. According to the lawsuit, faculty members have informed her she has an "improper professional disposition" and must alter her "central religious beliefs on human nature and conduct." University officials said the school doesn't discriminate based on students' religious or moral beliefs. But they add that the counseling curriculum requires trainees to follow the American Counseling Association code of ethic, which prohibits discrimination against clients based on sexual orientation and gender identity. David French of the Alliance Defense Fund, which filed Keeton's lawsuit, said no university has the right to force a citizen to change his or her beliefs about any topic. "A student has a right to express their point of view in and out of class without fear or censorship or expulsion," he said. "Simply put, the university is imposing thought reform." In a similar case, a federal court this week ruled in favor of Eastern Michigan University in a lawsuit regarding student Julea Ward. She was forced to leave the university's counseling program in 2009 "for not affirming homosexual behavior as morally acceptable," according to the ADF. Sources: FoxNews.com, WashingtonPost.com Discussion Questions: Is the university imposing thought reform or just sticking to established standards? Explain. Do you agree that all counselors should accept homosexuality as normal? Why or why not? Should Keeton have expected to run up against this issue in her chosen field? Would it be better for her to go along with the remediation just to get her degree? Why or why not? Have you ever been told your religious or ethical beliefs were unacceptable or irrational? If so, how did you respond? Are you ever tempted to change your stance-at least publicly-in order to fit in or be accepted? If so, explain. What makes it easier or more difficult to stand up for your beliefs? Where -- and with whom -- have you found reinforcement or backup? What possible conflicts might you run into with your school classes or the profession you hope to pursue? How do you plan to handle any problems that arise because of your faith? Do you feel chosen to stand up for Jesus and the gospel? Do you feel well-equipped to do so? Why or why not? Do you think Keeton's case has any merit? any chance of being successful in court? Explain. Does freedom of expression extend to college students who want to join the ranks of a particular profession? Why or why not? Scripture links: Jeremiah 26:1-16; Daniel 6:1-24; Romans 12:2; 1 Corinthians 16:10-14; 2 Corinthians 10:1-6; and 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17. Stephanie Martin is a freelance writer and editor in Colorado. share this article 1 of 1 /// Related Articles EthicsX-Men: The Last Stand (PG-13) Theme: Making ethical choices can be difficult. Scripture: Romans 1:18-20 Clip Location: 12:15 through 13:30 (DVD Chapter: 4) Synopsis: Professor Xavier challenges his students to take their power seriously, using it for... Likes [0]Comments [0] HomosexualityX2: X-Men United (PG-13) Theme: Christians must respond in love to those dealing with homosexuality. Scripture: Romans 1:26-27–2:4 Clip Location: 55:45 through 57:00 Preview All Clips Synopsis: Bobby tells his parents that he’s a mutant. His family is... Likes [0]Comments [0] Ethnic Studies Now Banned in Arizona SchoolsMay 14, 2010 Tucson, Arizona—In another controversial move, Arizona governor Jan Brewer signed a bill this week that bans ethnic studies in public schools. This comes just weeks after she signed an immigration bill that has already led to boycotts of... Likes [0]Comments [0]
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