BOONE — A sociology professor at Appalachian State University says she’s been suspended after students complained that she showed an explicit documentary on pornography.

Jammie Price says there also were complaints after a classroom discussion about the way black athletes are treated in the United States.

University officials referred questions to Linda Foulsham, director of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Compliance. Foulsham said Tuesday she could not comment on confidential personnel matters or confirm any complaints against Price.

Price is a tenured professor and has been at the school eight years. She said she was placed on paid administrative leave March 16 after complaints from four students.

She planned to submit a letter to university officials signed by more than 350 sociologists and faculty calling for her reinstatement.