NKU decides against rescinding admission offer to student accused of racist comment

HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. (WKRC) - Northern Kentucky now says it will not rescind the offer of admission to an incoming freshman who is accused of making a racist post on Instagram.

President Ashish Vaidya says he considered it after reading hundreds of emails and seeing a petition signed by more than 12,000 people, but, he says, the post -- however offensive -- is protected by the First Amendment.

"NKU serves nearly 15,000 students who come to us from all walks of life, many with diverse perspectives and lived experiences. Our task is to challenge these students to expand their worldview," Vaidya said.

The university says it will provide diversity and cultural training for all faculty and staff moving forward and all incoming freshmen will have to complete a reading on diversity, equity and inclusion.

Listen to Vaidya's full statement: