A federal court has dimissed a case against former University of Toledo filed by former vice president of human resources Crystal Dixon.  Dixon was terminated in 2008 after writing an editorial for the Toledo Free Press in which she called homosexuality a choice that violates “God’s divine order” and advocates conversion therapy.

Dixon argued that she was wrongfully terminated for voicing her personal opinions outside of work.  The university claimed that because of her strong personal bias, she did not adhere to the university’s diversity policies.

U.S. District Court Judge David Katz agreed with the university, stating in his 17-page opinion, ““…The balance of [Ms. Dixon’s] interest in making a comment of public concern is clearly outweighed by the University’s interest as her employer in carrying out its own objectives. Therefore, [Ms. Dixon] has failed to establish that her speech was protected.  [Ms. Dixon] also claims that she was fired for violating an impermissibly vague speech policy. However, the damage she did to her ability to perform her job and to the University provide ample justification for her termination.”

University president Dr. Mark Jacobs released a statement, praising the court’s decision.  “The University of Toledo is committed to providing a safe, welcoming environment for all students, faculty, staff, patients and visitors, regardless of race, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation or physical ability.  This institution will continue to stand by our strategic plan that demands we all work to ‘create an environment that values and fosters diversity; earns the trust and commitment of colleagues and the communities served; provides a collaborative and supportive work environment, based upon stewardship and advocacy, that adheres to the highest ethical standard.’”