Columbia University administrators placed on leave pending investigation
Columbia University has announced that three administrators have been placed on leave pending an investigation into an incident that occurred at an alumni reunion event several weeks ago. The university’s commitment to combating antisemitism was reiterated, although no specific details were shared about the leave. Images or descriptions of school officials purportedly sharing messages during a panel discussion on Jewish life at the campus were published by the Washington Free Beacon and Columbia Spectator.
Columbia College Dean Josef Sorett expressed regret for his role in the texts in a statement to the Spectator. CNN has not been able to independently verify the images, texts, or identity of the participants in the conversations. A spokesperson for Columbia told CNN that the administrators were placed on leave pending the university’s investigation. The Dean reaffirmed his commitment to learning from the incident and building a community of respect and healthy dialogue.
The university is taking the situation very seriously and is committed to confronting antisemitism, discrimination, and hate on campus. Columbia has faced scrutiny in recent months for its handling of campus protests related to the Israel-Hamas war, leading to a vote of no confidence in President Minouche Shafik. Charges were recently dismissed against dozens who were arrested for storming Hamilton Hall during a pro-Palestinian protest in April.
Representative Virginia Foxx, chair of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, released a statement condemning the reported text messages exchanged by Columbia administrators during a panel discussion on antisemitism. Dean Josef Sorett stated that he is cooperating with the investigation and is committed to addressing the issues of antisemitism, discrimination, and hate at Columbia. The New York Times reported that Sorett will be recused from matters related to the investigation while continuing to serve as dean.
CNN is reaching out to other administrators allegedly involved in the text exchange. Matt Egan and Artemis Moshtaghian contributed to this report.
