The following Truett Seminary students wish to express their deep sadness over the decision not to ask Dr. Rod Hetzel to teach classes at Truett Seminary in the future. Until now, Dr. Hetzel has served Truett Seminary as an adjunct professor (adjunct professors are asked to teach on a class-by-class basis). It is our understanding that many of Truett’s stakeholders have contacted the administration to advocate for their values in the question of Dr. Hetzel’s standing on the question of homosexuality and the church.

We testify that any comments, made in the confines of Dr. Hetzel’s home church, have not colored his teaching or student interactions on the question of homosexuality. We, the students and alumni, are the pre-eminent witnesses to Dr. Hetzel’s classroom and professional conduct; we testify that Dr. Hetzel provides compelling insight, quality content and pastoral care. However, he refrains from employing rhetoric that seeks to persuade or proselytize in his role at Truett.

We, as concerned and engaged students and alumni, also wish to advocate for our values. We value excellent teaching, piercing insight, and quality preparation. Dr. Hetzel possesses all of these qualities to such a high degree that any failure to retain Dr. Hetzel would be a profound loss for our academic and spiritual community. Therefore, we respectfully ask that the Truett administration reconsider their decision regarding Dr. Hetzel’s status as an adjunct professor. Thank you for your consideration.