A state University College at Geneseo instructor is under fire from students outraged by allegedly inappropriate comments he made about transgender people during a recent sociology class.

According to sophomore Jasmine Cui, the comments came during adjunct lecturer David Sorbello's class lecture on Oct. 18, when Sorbello presented the class with a slide titled "FEMALE or SHEMALE? can you tell?"

Cui tweeted an image of the slide and posted it to Facebook earlier this week, generating an outpouring of indignation from fellow students and Geneseo alumni.

Cui said as a student senator, she discussed the issue with the school's diversity committee, but was told the senate would not act on the behalf of the angry students.

"So, it is all up to the administration now," she said.

A letter signed by more than 50 Geneseo students alleges that Sorbello also joked with his students that they should avoid intoxication, "suggesting it could result in them going home with an individual who is transgender."

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The letter also states that while Sorbello later explained that his exercise was "for humor" and to "teach sexual dimorphism" the students, nonetheless, "find the manner in which he taught to be unethical and reprehensible — there are other, more appropriate ways of teaching this topic."

Sorbello could not be immediately reached for comment.

Geneseo President Denise A. Battles addressed the issue Friday in a written statement.

"We are taking the matter very seriously and are gathering the facts to determine if and what action is warranted," she said "The classroom is an environment in which students and faculty can and should discuss challenging topics and ideas, which makes it all the more important that we gather and fully review the facts in the case."

Battles continued: "As we review this situation, let me say unequivocally that SUNY Geneseo has a steadfast and uncompromising commitment to diversity and inclusivity. We work diligently to sustain an inviting and supportive environment for people of all gender identities, gender expressions, sexual orientations, races, religions and other identities."

In their letter, the students say they hope the school ultimately responds in a way that "yes, condemns hate, but also offers solutions which are more proactive than they are reactive."

Cui said students need to be able to challenge their instructors, especially when their words are hurtful or reflect prejudices, she said.

"There is an inherent power asymmetry in classrooms between students and their professors," Cui added. "If we cannot find a way to bridge this asymmetry in an ethical, effective manner, then students will continue to be at risk of having their individual rights abridged."

MCDERMOT@Gannett.com