Pennsylvania

Angered Over Lack of Tenure, Lafayette College Professor Goes on Hunger Strike

A professor at a Pennsylvania college says he's on a hunger strike over the denial of his application for tenure.

Juan Rojo announced his plan during a faculty meeting on Tuesday and says he expects to continue teaching at Lafayette College in Easton through the rest of the semester. He says he plans to consume only water and sports drinks until the issue is resolved.

Rojo has taught Spanish language and literature at the college since 2008.

A committee voted to recommend Rojo for tenure in December, but college President Alison Byerly denied his tenure, saying he didn't exhibit "distinctive" teaching abilities.

"I have to find a way to bring light to this issue," Rojo told NBC10. "Are you really going to be the person that just talks the talk or are you going to walk the walk?"

The college says it respects Rojo's right to disagree with the decision, but hopes he will express his views in a way that doesn't endanger his health.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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