University of Oklahoma instructor placed on leave for referencing Bible in essay

A graduate teaching assistant at the University of Oklahoma has been placed on administrative leave after a student raised concerns about her essay grade, claiming it violated her rights. The student, junior Samantha Fulnecky, submitted an essay in response to an article discussing societal expectations of gender. In her paper, Fulnecky argued that traditional gender roles should not automatically be viewed as stereotypes and referenced the Bible to support her position that removing gender distinctions would be "detrimental" to humanity, moving people "farther from God's original plan."

The instructor awarded Fulnecky zero out of 25 points, stating that her essay lacked empirical evidence and contained offensive content. Fulnecky subsequently filed a formal discrimination complaint with the university and submitted a grade appeal. She also reached out to Governor Kevin Stitt regarding the matter.

On Sunday, November 30, 2025, the University of Oklahoma announced that the graduate instructor involved would be placed on administrative leave while the situation is reviewed.

Instructor Feedback and Student Response

In the feedback, the instructor described Fulnecky's arguments on gender as "highly offensive" and urged her to apply "more perspective and empathy" in her work. Both instructors involved declined to alter the student's grade. A transcript of their discussions has been made publicly available.

Governors Reaction

Governor Kevin Stitt addressed the situation on X, emphasizing the importance of the First Amendment in education. He called on the OU regents to review the investigation to ensure no student is penalized for their personal beliefs:

"The 1st Amendment is foundational to our freedom & inseparable from a well rounded education. The situation at OU is deeply concerning. Im calling on the OU regents to review the results of the investigation & ensure other students arent unfairly penalized for their beliefs."

Governor Kevin Stitt (@GovStitt) November 30, 2025

Reporters Alexia Aston and Alex Gadden contributed to this coverage. This story was originally published in the Oklahoman under the headline: University of Oklahoma instructor on leave over essay citing Bible.

Author: Sophia Brooks