Advisory: Baylor rescinds research grant

Texas Baptists Life Advisory

Baylor University rescinds external research grant

Today, Baylor University President Linda Livingstone announced that the acceptance of the external research grant awarded to the Diana Garland School of Social Work for the Courage from the Margins study has been rescinded.

In her address to faculty, staff and alumni, President Livingstone said that a review of the grant revealed that “the work extended into advocacy for perspectives on human sexuality that are inconsistent with Baylor’s institutional policies, including our Statement on Human Sexuality.”

The University’s Statement on Human Sexuality may be found here.

President Livingstone acknowledged concerns expressed by members of the Texas Baptists family and others.

“We recognize that this situation has caused concern and confusion for many within the Baylor Family and among our broader community of churches, partner organizations and supporters,” she said. “This has been a learning opportunity for many involved in this situation.”

In response, Texas Baptists Executive Director Julio Guarneri expressed his appreciation.

“I am thankful for this decision made by Baylor leadership. The decision is consistent with Baylor’s policies and statement on human sexuality. We appreciate Baylor President Linda Livingstone and Truett Seminary Dean Todd Still for their commitment to these biblical and historical principles, and for their leadership,” he said.

Thank you, Texas Baptists family, for sharing your questions and concerns with Texas Baptists leadership, as well as administrators at Baylor University and George W. Truett Theological Seminary. We are grateful for your deep care, diligent support and ceaseless prayer.

May God continue to bless the churches, ministry partners and ministry staff of this convention as together we push back the lostness in Texas and around the world. We are more together.