Whitworth disappoints

I was surprised and disappointed to read that Whitworth University students can no longer opt to do internships with Planned Parenthood, according to student Abby Nye in her May 23 letter. As a former Whitworth faculty member and academic administrator, I do understand that for decades Whitworth has chosen not to take sides in culture wars of whatever era. Instead, the university prides itself on educating students in faith and reason so that they can think for themselves and live out their deepest values in a complex world.

Given these educational goals, it’s hard to understand why Dr. Taylor has now taken away the option for thoughtful students — who’ve come to their own conclusions — to do for-credit internships with this nationally recognized women’s health organization. It’s one thing to say that the institution will not take a stand for or against Planned Parenthood. It’s another thing to take away educational opportunities from individual students. We can’t teach them to think for themselves by telling them what they must think.

Tammy Reid, Ph.D.

Spokane