Students, faculty ask UVa president not to quote Jefferson

(AP) — The University of Virginia president defended her use of Thomas Jefferson quotations after a group of students and professors criticized her, saying Jefferson shouldn't be used as a "moral compass" because he was a slave owner.

"Though we realize that some members of our university community may be inspired by quotes from Jefferson, we also realize that many of us are deeply offended by attempts on behalf of our administration to guide our moral behavior through their use," the letter stated.

According to the letter, using quotes from the school's founder "undermines the messages of unity, equality, civility, and inclusivity" that Sullivan was trying to convey.