The large turnout surprised organizers and protestors, according to the Heights, the student newspaper for Boston College.

At this point, there has been no agreement between university officials and students as to a nondiscrimination clause. University spokesman Jack Dunn told the Heights that discussions will continue until an agreement has been reached.

"We are convinced that through continued dialogue we can reach an agreement that makes our policy statement more welcoming and affirming while safeguarding our right as a Catholic university to remain faithful to our religious identity and mission," Dunn said.

The university was on the Princeton Review's "Alternative Lifestyles Not an Alternative" list in the last rankings.

Marquette added sexual orientation to its nondiscrimination clause in 2003.