By Rob Shimshock, DCNF

A university president in Tennessee apologized Friday for hosting black students in his home, which displayed a cotton decoration.

Randy Lowry, president of Lipscomb University, apologized for showing centerpieces bearing cotton stalks while hosting black students at his home in an email sent to the school Friday and posted on Facebook.

“The content of the centerpieces was offensive, and I could have handled the situation with more sensitivity,” said Lowry. “I sincerely apologize for the discomfort, anger or disappointment we caused and solicit your forgiveness.”

The president reported that multiple students confided in him about the cotton decoration displayed during a Thursday dinner he hosted at his home for black students to share their experiences at Lipscomb with him.

“I have heard from a number of students who would like to spend more time together engaging in conversation,” said Lowry. “I am most pleased to do so either in small groups or individually.”

Other schools have taken action to try to redress the grievances of black students. The University of Missouri hosted segregated microaggression therapy sessions in August.

The Daily Caller News Foundation reached out to Lowry and Lipscomb for comment, but received none in time for press.

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