The University of Washington is facing a wave of intense reactions after an OnlyFans creator participated as a guest speaker in one of its most highly enrolled undergraduate courses, prompting a renewed national debate about academic freedom, modern sexuality, and the boundaries of classroom discussions.

The controversy stems from a guest lecture on November 17 in Psychology 210: Diversity of Human Sexuality, taught by well-known UW instructor Dr. Nicole McNichols, who often brands herself online as “Nicole the Sex Professor.” As part of the course’s section on sexual expression in digital spaces, McNichols invited 24-year-old influencer and OnlyFans creator Ari Kytsya to speak about the evolution of online sexual labor and the realities of performing in digital media economies.

According to videos posted on Kytsya’s TikTok account, the event drew a massive turnout — approximately 1,200 students, with many sitting on the floor due to lack of seating. Kytsya, who has millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram, discussed the structure of digital sex work, managing an online persona, and the psychological pressures that come with visibility in sexually-charged online spaces.

The university confirmed the event was part of the official curriculum. UW spokesperson Victor Balta explained that the course routinely covers topics such as ethical pornography, stigmatization, and modern sexual representation. “Students enrolled are adults, and the class encourages open, evidence-based discussion about sexuality,” he said.

Dr. McNichols defended her choice in comments provided to student reporters, arguing that discussions about digital sexual labor cannot be separated from real-world practitioners. She described OnlyFans as a “major part of contemporary sexual media,” adding that inclusive dialogue strengthens students’ understanding of how sexuality operates in society today.

However, the speaker’s presence quickly ignited criticism from conservative student groups and some individuals who believe the lecture blurred the line between academic inquiry and the promotion of sex work.

Sophomore Kiya Golphenee told Campus Reform that the invitation undermines the university’s stated values. She argued that showcasing an adult content creator as a guest lecturer “violates ethical standards,” claiming that the digital sex industry contributes to objectification and exploitation.

Another student, Elliot Myers, expressed concern that the appearance “signals openness towards prostitution,” suggesting it may normalize the idea of young women monetizing their sexuality.

Graduate student Devynn Gately went further, describing the event as “disheartening” and claiming it exemplifies why many believe universities are drifting away from offering positive role models. Gately also criticized what she described as inconsistency in the types of speech universities permit, saying religious perspectives are constrained while sexual themes receive amplified visibility.

Beyond campus, the incident intensified online debate after clips were shared by Barstool Sports and other high-traffic social platforms. Critics argued the lecture symbolized moral decline and declining academic standards, while others insisted the backlash ignored key context — namely that the course focuses specifically on the study of sex and sexuality in society.

On TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), reactions ranged from mocking to alarmist. Some users insisted the talk was inappropriate for a university setting, while others noted that sexual labor, online identity, and digital media economies are legitimate areas of academic study.

Inside the lecture hall, however, several students described the environment as more curious than chaotic. Many said the talk felt consistent with the course’s themes rather than a sensational showcase.

The conversation around the event underscores a broader societal divide: should universities include voices from stigmatized industries in academic discussions, or does doing so legitimize controversial professions?

Campus Reform stated it reached out to Ari Kytsya for additional comment and would update its report when available.

 FAQ

1. Why was an OnlyFans creator invited to a university class?
The guest lecture was part of a course on human sexuality. The professor said the aim was to examine modern digital sexual labor and give students real-world perspectives.

2. Did the University of Washington approve the event?
Yes. The university confirmed it was part of an official 200-level course and that enrolled students are adults.

3. Why are some students upset?
Critics believe the guest speaker’s career contradicts the university’s ethical standards and may normalize sex work.

4. How did the public respond?
Social media reactions were polarized. Some viewed the talk as inappropriate, while others argued it aligned with academic freedom and the study of sexuality.

5. Did the guest lecture violate university policies?
There is no indication that it violated any UW policies.