College president sorry for cotton stalk centerpieces at dinner for Black students
Students claim the centerpieces in the home of Lipscomb University president in Tennessee were made of cotton stalk.
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The president of Lipscomb University in Tennessee has issued an apology after he invited African-American students to his home to hear about their experiences at the university and some students said that the centerpieces in his home were offensive.
The students who attended the dinner were shocked when they saw the centerpieces at the table were made of cotton stalks.
What’s more, several students were offended by the meal fare itself, claiming that it consisted of stereotypical meals like mac-n-cheese and collard greens. One Instagram post also claimed that Latino students had met with the president previously and were served tacos.
President Randy Lowry has since issued a letter of apology, writing, “Last night we invited Lipscomb African American students to our home for dinner to discuss their experiences at Lipscomb. Several students shared with me their concern about the material used for centerpieces which contained stalks of cotton.”
“The content of the centerpieces was offensive, and I could have handled the situation with more sensitivity. I sincerely apologize for the discomfort, anger or disappointment we caused and solicit your forgiveness,” he continued.
He concluded by saying, “I welcome the opportunity to continue this conversation.”
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