A New Jersey college gave its students the chance to pick which new restaurant they wanted on campus -- so long as it wasn't Chick-fil-A.

After students at Rider University voted for the fast casual restaurant as their top choice in the spring, the private college sent another survey this fall and excluded the fast casual restaurant "based on the company's record widely perceived to be in opposition to the LGBTQ+ community," according to the university.

"Ultimately, we decided to lean in the direction of creating a welcoming environment where differences can be appreciated and where each individual can expect to experience dignity and respect," administrators wrote in a letter explaining the decision. "In many ways, this issue is one that goes beyond our decision and touches on a complex conversation taking place throughout the country."

The decision quickly sparked backlash, with one student telling the website Campus Reform, "they sell chicken, so as far as I am concerned that should be the focus."

Chick-fil-A's corporate values have stirred controversy since 2012, when its president spoke against same-sex marriage and news reports revealed the company donated to organizations opposed to same-sex marriage.

That prompted boycotts and kiss-ins from LGTBQ advocates and a rival "Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day" organized by conservative politician Mike Huckabee.

Rider's decision required a difficult assessment of competing interests, the university said.

"The choices in this situation, like in so many others, were imperfect," administrators wrote. "They challenged us to reflect on our values and consider what kind of community we want to provide for those who live and learn at Rider University.

The university has asked its Center for Diversity and Inclusion to organize a campus forum so that the voices of students, faculty, staff and others can continue to be heard.

"We fully acknowledge an organization's right to hold these beliefs, just as we acknowledge the right for individuals in our community and elsewhere to also personally hold the same beliefs," campus officials wrote.

Adam Clark may be reached at adam_clark@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on twitter at @realAdamClark. Find NJ.com on Facebook.