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Lisa Howe, former soccer coach at Belmont University, responds to the statement made
yesterday by Belmont President Bob Fisher, who, according to press reports, said that the
University welcomes gay and lesbian students and staff and does not discriminate based on
sexual orientation.

³I am very grateful to the Belmont students, faculty, alumni, and others in Nashville and
across the nation who care about education and equality. Everyone took a stand and made their
voices heard,´ she relates.

³I congratulate and praise Dr. Fisher for announcing this non-discrimination policy,
which will set an example for Christian schools and universities across the country. I look
forward to seeing this policy implemented. I intend for my next job to be in a place where I feel
safe and welcome. If Belmont is that place, then I will certainly consider reapplying.´

Nashville attorney Abby Rubenfeld, who represents Howe, also complimented Fisher¶s
stance, ³I applaud President Fisher for his courage in speaking out as the president of a
prominent Christian university in favor of non-discrimination based on sexual orientation. I look
forward to seeing the written policy. If Belmont needs any assistance with drafting a policy, I
would be honored to help.´

Rubenfeld, a nationally renowned advocate for equality under the law, continues, ³This is
an important step forward. I also encourage Belmont to accept the invitation Faith In America
made earlier in the week to meet in an effort to gain more of an understanding of how to create a
more inclusive environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students and faculty on
campus.´

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