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UK cuts ties with former pizza businessman John Schnatter

UK President Eli Capilouto said the university believes Schnatter wants to make amends but it was decided the best move would be to cut ties with the business man.
Credit: Getty Images
Former Papa John's CEO John Schnatter

LOUISVILLE (WHAS11) – The University of Kentucky has cut its ties with John Schnatter on Friday, July 13.

UK President Eli Capilouto said the university believes Schnatter wants to make amends but it was decided the best move would be for the Institute for The Study of Free Enterprise or Gatton College of Business and Economics not to recognize the businessman any longer.

UK’s announcement comes after UofL said Schnatter’s name would be dropped from the UofL football stadium.

These changes come after Schnatter said he used a racial slur during a May conference call which he apologized for.

The following is Capilouto's full statement:

"We appreciate Mr. Schnatter's understanding that his unacceptable language is contrary to the values of the University of Kentucky. We believe in his sincerity to try to make amends. But attempting to continue any financial relationship with Mr. Schnatter would be a painful and unnecessary barrier to our efforts of building a community where everyone is welcome and belongs. Therefore, we will be continuing the important work of the Institute for the study of Free Enterprise, but neither the Gatton College of Business and Economics nor the Institute will recognize Mr. Schnatter in any way."

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