NOTICE: Classes canceled today due to weather conditions. Check Blackboard for communication from your instructors.
BOLIVAR, Mo. — SBU President Dr. C. Pat Taylor issues the following statement:
Southwest Baptist University is a Christ-centered, caring academic institution. We desire for all students to uphold the moral values and ethical standards of the University as outlined in the university’s Principles and Expectations. Within that, we expect students to have respect for all people, as all individuals are of worth in the eyes of God.
As a father and grandfather, I am especially grieved about recent allegations against two SBU students of alleged abuse at a local residential care facility for youth. I am saddened any time that we learn of conduct that does not align with our mission and values. On behalf of the SBU family, I express great sorrow over these actions. Such behavior will not be tolerated by the SBU community.
The University acted swiftly and respectfully upon receiving information last week related to the incident, resulting in the immediate contacting of authorities. In this, as with all allegations of student misconduct, it is imperative that we follow our internal processes and procedures. This resulted in the dismissal of two students from our University.
I encourage you to join me in praying for the parties involved in this situation and for the SBU family. We will not let the regretful actions of a few define who we are as an institution. We are a community of 3,700 students, 350 full-time faculty and staff, and more than 27,000 alumni around the world — and we continue to carry out our mission of being a Christ-centered, caring academic community preparing students to be servant leaders in a global society.
Sincerely,
Dr. C. Pat Taylor
SBU President
