Wake Forest University is among a growing list of schools to support high school student protests against gun violence, sending prospective students a message that their peaceful actions won't affect their chances of getting into those schools.
Wake Forest President Nathan Hatch released a statement saying he applauded those high schoolers with the courage to protest in the aftermath of the deadly shooting in Parkland, Florida. Taking part in civil dialogue about the issue would not adversely affect their applications.
The shooting that left 17 people dead has sparked calls for walkouts, sit-ins and other actions on school campuses across the country. Last week students took part in demonstrations at Grimsley and Page High Schools in Greensboro and at the State Capitol Building in Raleigh.
Dozens of other college and universities including Davidson College, Yale and UCLA are telling students who may face discipline at their high schools for protesting gun violence that they too can relax.
A Texas school superintendent warned that students would face a three-day, out-of-school suspension if they joined the growing protests. Another in Wisconsin said students could be excused with parental consent.