(My mother-in-law gave me this tip at our Mother's Day lunch as it hasn't yet made the Pittsburgh papers.)
From the Sharon Herald (largest paper near the college) comes word that John Gechter will be permitted to graduate with a GCC degree. In a deal struck with the college, Gechter must complete his two remaining classes elsewhere which can then be transferred back to GCC for his degree.
Gechter had previously been suspected when school officials learned of his roles in gay male pornography. Gechter claims he was using the money earned to finance his education. A video was discovered by another student who shared it with the general student body. Gechter was two classes away from completing his undergraduate degree.
Gechter states he will drop plans for a lawsuit in return for this resolution. He plans to move to New York City where he has been cast in a play.
As for the students who spread the information (and the video?)?
GCC also did not offer any specific comment as to whether any students were punished for spreading the e-mail about Gechter, only stating that ?in mid-April, the Office of Student Life and Learning at Grove City College received information indicating one of our students was actively involved in the hardcore pornographic adult entertainment industry.?
Student reaction seems mixed with some students sympathetic to Gechter for being suspended so close to graduation.
Other students seem in la-la land, stating that they do not believe Gechter was harassed at their good Christian environment. Seriously? I've been to a whole lot of churches in my life and met a lot of very human Christians engaging in gossip, slander, and other nasty low down behavior. I also attended a Catholic university so I definitely know what happens in that kind of good Christian environment.
I am glad things worked out for Gechter and hope other students take heed to enroll in schools that accept federal financial aid if they plan to finance their education by freelance work in the adult entertainment industry. Still, I can't help wondering if the students who "gossiped" this information around the campus even get that they violated a Christian code of conduct?
How can the College act in "good faith" if these students and those who allegedly sent "hate email" to Gechter go about their way with nary a backward glance?
