Georgetown University in Washington this week defended its decision to invite Kathleen Sebelius, US Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, to speak at an awards ceremony at the school held in conjunction with graduation.
Ms Sebelius has been the focus of much criticism by Catholic groups over a January mandate by her department that will require employers to provide their staff with insurance that covers contraception and sterilsations.
In a statement, Georgetown President John DeGioia said that students at the School of Public Policy had nominated Ms Sebelius to speak at the event.
He added: "The Secretary's presence on our campus should not be viewed as an endorsement of her views."