Message From The President
19th September 2011
Written by Dr. Gary Nelson | Link
September 19, 2011 -
The controversy surrounding the cancelled breakfast with George W. Bush has demonstrated that Tyndale needs to have clearer policies and guidelines in place so that diverse views can be expressed in a respectful and hospitable space. In retrospect, I regret that we did not have such a framework in place. Consequently, we will be working with our constituents and the Board of Governors to develop appropriate procedures and practices for the future. As a university college and seminary, Tyndale will continue to host various people to speak on issues that matter.
Thank you for your engagement, your comments, and your patience.
Dr. Gary Nelson
President and Vice Chancellor
Tyndale University College & Seminary
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“The day after the faculty was informed of the impending presidential breakfast, a colleague and I proposed a forum for interested faculty and students. The event would consider Christian interpretation of the legacy of George W. Bush, inviting four diverse viewpoints that spanned the political and theological spectrum. We would structure a civil conversation and give room for other faculty and students to respond and interact.
Our proposal was in the spirit of dialogue, academic freedom, and freedom of speech. A key administrator explained that our offer was not accepted because of – quoting here – “concern that we not make too much of this.” (In spite of our administration’s caution, a maelstrom of controversy ensued once the press exposed Tyndale’s plans.)”– Arthur Paul Boers
“Tyndale needs to have clearer policies and guidelines in place so that diverse views can be expressed in a respectful and hospitable space. In retrospect, I regret that we did not have such a framework in place. Consequently, we will be working with our constituents and the Board of Governors to develop appropriate procedures and practices for the future.”– Gary Nelson