News Summary
The University of Oklahoma has dismissed graduate teaching assistant William ‘Mel’ Curth after an investigation concluded that Curth’s grading practices were arbitrary and inconsistent. The controversy arose following a disputed essay by student Samantha Fulnecky, in which she expressed her Christian beliefs regarding gender norms. Curth’s decision to award a zero for the assignment, deemed offensive, sparked a complaint of religious discrimination, leading to a university review. The university reaffirms its commitment to academic freedom while Curth considers legal action against the dismissal.
Oklahoma City, OK — University of Oklahoma Teaching Assistant Dismissed Following Grading Controversy
The University of Oklahoma has dismissed graduate teaching assistant William “Mel” Curth after an investigation into a grading dispute involving student Samantha Fulnecky. The university determined that Curth’s grading was arbitrary and inconsistent with established standards.
Incident Details
In November 2025, Fulnecky, a junior psychology major, submitted an essay for a “Lifespan Development” course. The assignment required students to reflect on a scholarly article about gender norms. Fulnecky incorporated her Christian beliefs, citing the Bible to argue that promoting a “belief in multiple genders” was “demonic.” Curth awarded Fulnecky zero out of 25 points, stating that the essay did not address the assignment’s questions and was “offensive.” Curth also noted that the concept of only two sexes is not supported by science, referencing major psychological, medical, pediatric, and psychiatric associations that acknowledge sex and gender as neither binary nor fixed.
University’s Response
Following Fulnecky’s complaint of religious discrimination, the university conducted an investigation. The review found that Curth’s grading was arbitrary and inconsistent with prior standards. As a result, Curth was removed from instructional duties. The university emphasized its commitment to academic freedom and integrity, stating that it is dedicated to teaching students how to think, not what to think.
Instructor’s Appeal
Curth, who uses she/they pronouns, has denied engaging in arbitrary grading. Through her attorney, Brittany Stewart, Curth is considering all legal remedies and has appealed the university’s decision. Stewart highlighted that Curth is evaluating all available legal options.
Background Context
This incident has sparked broader discussions about academic freedom, religious expression, and grading practices in higher education. The university has stated that it is committed to ensuring instructors have comprehensive training to objectively assess students’ work without limiting their ability to teach, inspire, and elevate the next generation.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Graduate teaching assistant dismissed after grading dispute over student’s Bible-based essay on gender norms. |
| University’s Response | Investigation found grading arbitrary; Curth removed from instructional duties; emphasized commitment to academic freedom. |
| Instructor’s Appeal | Curth denies arbitrary grading; attorney considering legal remedies; appeal filed against university’s decision. |
| Background Context | Incident highlights discussions on academic freedom, religious expression, and grading practices in higher education. |
FAQ
What led to the dismissal of the teaching assistant?
The University of Oklahoma dismissed graduate teaching assistant William “Mel” Curth after an investigation found that Curth’s grading of a student’s essay was “arbitrary” and inconsistent with established standards. The student, Samantha Fulnecky, had incorporated her Christian beliefs into the assignment, leading to a complaint of religious discrimination.
What was the content of the disputed essay?
Samantha Fulnecky’s essay for a “Lifespan Development” course included her Christian beliefs, citing the Bible to argue that promoting a “belief in multiple genders” was “demonic.” The assignment required students to reflect on a scholarly article about gender norms.
What is the university’s stance on academic freedom and religious expression?
The University of Oklahoma emphasized its commitment to academic freedom and integrity, stating that it is dedicated to teaching students how to think, not what to think. The university also highlighted its commitment to ensuring instructors have comprehensive training to objectively assess students’ work without limiting their ability to teach, inspire, and elevate the next generation.
Has the dismissed teaching assistant taken any action in response to the dismissal?
Yes, William “Mel” Curth has denied engaging in arbitrary grading. Through her attorney, Brittany Stewart, Curth is considering all legal remedies and has appealed the university’s decision. Stewart stated that Curth is “considering all of her legal remedies.”
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University of Oklahoma Faces Controversy Over Student’s Essay
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