Three Columbia University deans placed on administrative leave over disparaging texts during anti-semitism panel
- In Reports
- 07:04 PM, Jun 22, 2024
- Myind Staff
Three Columbia University deans have been placed on administrative leave following a disparaging text exchange during an antisemitism panel. The text conversation between Susan Chang-Kim, Matthew Patashnick, and Cristen Kromm, all associate deans and administrators at Columbia was captured and shared online, featuring a vomiting face emoji and dismissive comments.
An alumnus in the audience during the May 31 panel on Jewish life at the university captured the insulting texts. The images quickly went viral, drawing the attention of Congress. Representative Virginia Foxx, a Republican and chair of the committee, stated, "I was appalled, but sadly not surprised, to learn Columbia administrators exchanged disparaging text messages during a panel that discussed antisemitism at the University."
As the panelists addressed the issue of rising antisemitism on school campuses and its impact, the Columbia administrators mocked and dismissed their viewpoints through text messages. Chang-Kim texted Dean Josef Sorett, "This is difficult to listen to but I'm trying to keep an open mind to learn about this point of view," to which Sorett replied, "Yup."
In another exchange, Matthew Patashnick, Columbia’s Associate Dean for Student and Family Support, accused an unknown panel member of exploiting the situation. He texted, “He knows exactly what he’s doing and how to take full advantage of this moment. Huge fundraising potential,” according to the New York Post.
A spokesperson for Columbia University informed Fox News that three administrators have been placed on administrative leave pending a university investigation. “The Dean of Columbia College informed his team today that three administrators have been placed on leave pending a university investigation of the incident that occurred at the College alumni reunion several weeks ago,” the spokesperson stated.
The university emphasised its commitment to addressing antisemitism and ensuring a safe environment for all students. “We are committed to combatting antisemitism and taking sustained, concrete action to ensure Columbia is a campus where Jewish students and everyone in our community feels safe, valued, and able to thrive,” the statement added.
Image source: Hindustan Times
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