Johnson City, TN – East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is at the center of a significant debate this week after placing two faculty members on administrative leave for celebratory social media posts regarding the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. One professor described the event as “poetic justice,” while another shared memes implying it was “one less fascist,” sparking widespread outrage.
In response, ETSU President Brian Noland condemned “hate speech or glorification of violence” and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to civility. A full investigation has been initiated, and the faculty involved may be terminated.
ETSU’s quick handling of the Kirk fallout positions it as a “responsible” player in Tennessee’s heated academic debates, contrasting Cumberland’s initial silence. This swift action has been praised by conservative groups and local alums, who see it as a necessary step against perceived academic bias.
ETSU has positioned itself as a responsible actor in ongoing discussions about academic freedom in Tennessee.
Author
Lee Bailey
September 12, 2025 at 6:31 pm
I watched a video of one of Charlie Kirk’s rallies, where one student called him a fascist…Charlie asked him to tell him one thing he had done or said that was fascist, but of course the kid couldn’t. The left has learned that when they use a derogatory label to define a conservative/Christian, it typically ends the discussion/debate instantly…after all, no rational person wants to be called names …we learned that in elementary school! But if we can relearn how to handle it when we are insulted…ask questions: what, why, how…and let the opposition back up their claims! If there’s truth to their words, they will be able to back them up…but I’m betting many of not most of them will be frozen!