Student Handbook 2012-13

Guest Speaker/Lecturer Policy

As an institution of learning, LeTourneau University seeks to enrich learning by inviting speakers and lecturers that speak to student groups, classes, and other constituent groups. Invitations to speakers are made by faculty members, academic and administrative units, and by authorized representatives of recognized and approved student organizations. Student organizations that invite speakers need the specific written approval of their approved sponsor or advisor. Individuals, acting apart from their appropriate roles, are not authorized to invite speakers to the University.

LeTourneau University reserves the right to approve the on-campus appearance of guest speakers and lecturers. When in doubt of the appropriateness of inviting a speaker, individuals or groups are expected to reference the proposed invitation with the appropriate Vice President. If the speaker/guest is known for a position or is likely to promote a position inconsistent with the University mission or Christian principles described in the Student Handbook or represents a lifestyle inconsistent with the University mission, the host must take the appropriate steps as a part of that same program to also present a Christian worldview.

When inviting persons who are either candidates for public office or who represent a person running for public office or who represent a particular partisan political position, it is necessary to have as a part of that program of information, a person representing the other candidate or partisan position. In all cases, care must be given to avoid any implication of the University’'s involvement with or support of a particular political candidate.

In all invitations to guest speakers and in all communication with guests, great care should be taken to communicate respectfully, clearly stating the perspective of the University while providing a welcome and hospitable environment. All invitations should clearly state the purpose of the invitation, the nature and content of the requested speech, the proposed audience and the time, place, and expected length of the proposed address. Please notify the Office of University Relations when the speaker provides opportunity for publicity to the University.