This university would rather give up $3 million than destroy its LGBT students group

“When addressing same-gender sexual relationships, the Bible without exception never affirms such behavior as an approved lifestyle.”

After the university’s refusal, Shane Windmeyer, executive director of Campus Pride – a national LGBT group for students, said Westmoreland’s move to “stand up” to the Baptist group was brave.

“The decision shows a great deal of courage to tell the [convention]: ‘Well, take your money, we’re going to do what we need to do on our campus’,” he said.

“If Samford wants to be seen as inclusive, safe and accepting, then they should allow this group to exist.

“Are they the worst of the worst? Well, it sounds like the president is willing to stand up and say, ‘You know what, we’re not going to take the money.’”

The university’s annual budget is around $166 million.

Earlier this year, Alabama passed a law permitting anti-LGBT discrimination in adoption cases.