“The premise was like, we’re OK with you working here as long as you never say anything or do anything or act in a certain way or tell anyone — all these really tough stipulations,” Morrison said.
In April, when she posted the statements, she thought she was careful.
The school’s motto is “Pro Christo et Patria,” meaning “For Christ and Country,” expressed in a seal illustration of the open Bible. It is a member of the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities, the largest association of Christian schools.
After nearly two months, on June 2, Morrison was called into a meeting with school officials and told the statements she posted do not reflect the college’s values. She was offered a nondisclosure agreement with a three months’ severance package, which she declined.
Geneva College’s public relations office confirmed that Morrison and Symmonds were no longer employed. The school’s president and chief athletic officer did not respond to emails asking for comment.
In a statement, the school said it adheres to the Westminster Confession of Faith, Westminster Catechisms, the Testimony of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America and various policies of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America.
Former Geneva College soccer coach Kelsey Morrison works with a group of youth soccer players at Reeves Field. Photo courtesy of Morrison
“In order to maintain its religious character and identity, the College draws its workforce from among those who are willing to model and annually reaffirm their commitment to the truths captured in these documents,” the Geneva spokesperson wrote. “The College reserves the right to take appropriate action, up to and including separation from employment, if an employee engages in behavior or expression that contradicts or undermines these views.”
A week after Morrison was fired, her assistant on the soccer team resigned, saying he could no longer be passionate about coaching soccer in that school.
“It’s hard for me to get to a place where I believe that’s how Jesus would have us treat people — is to fire them when they say that they hold value,” said Symmonds. “She wasn’t advocating for people to live that lifestyle. She just said they have value.”
This article originally appeared here.
