U of Tenn dean approves new TPUSA chapter after student gov voted it down

After facing backlash when it denied an application to establish a Turning Point USA (TPUSA) chapter on its campus, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) approved the formation of the club on campus. The university's student government on Tuesday had voted down the establishment of the chapter on campus.

TPUSA spokesman Andrew Kolvet had posted on Wednesday to X, writing, "The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has denied Turning Point USA’s RSO (Registered Student Organization) request following a vote by the Student Government Association. This decision effectively blocks our students from gaining official recognition on campus."

"As a result, the students will be forced to restart the process, reapplying and once again facing the same SGA that has already demonstrated clear bias against them. Tennessee, are these the values of your state? Your tax dollars are propping this garbage up," he added.

After the post was made, and backlash ensued, however, UTC's Dean of Students Office has approved the formation of the chapter. "As part of the process of becoming a Registered Student Organization at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, the Dean of Student’s Office has completed its review of a group of students’ application to establish a chapter of Turning Point USA on campus. The Dean of Student’s Office has determined that Turning Point USA is approved as a Registered Student Organization," spokesman for UTC Jay Blackmon said, per Local 3 News.

“While the Student Government Association may voice opinions, recognition of student organizations is determined by the UTC Dean of Students and Chancellor. Turning Point USA has been authorized in accordance with university policy and the law," he added. The final decision on the matter was made by the Dean of Students Office.