Three deans at Columbia University have stepped down following an investigation into concerning text message exchanges, which the administration described as reflecting “ancient antisemitic tropes.”
The resignations come amidst widespread protests on college campuses across the US, sparked by the country’s support for Israel’s recent conflict in Gaza. This has led to accusations of both antisemitic and Islamophobic rhetoric.
Cristen Kromm, the former dean of undergraduate student life; Matthew Patashnick, the former associate dean for student and family support; and Susan Chang-Kim, the former vice dean and chief administrative officer, were all placed on leave as the investigation progressed.
The messages in question were exchanged during an event at Columbia titled “Jewish Life on Campus: Past, Present, and Future.” The university stated that the incident revealed behavior and sentiments that were “not only unprofessional but also disturbingly aligned with ancient antisemitic tropes.”
The three deans who resigned have not commented, and the university has not provided further details about the content of the messages or the reasons behind the resignations.
Protests over US support for Israel’s Gaza offensive, which has resulted in numerous Palestinian casualties, have significantly impacted college campuses nationwide. Columbia, in particular, has seen intense demonstrations, including student encampments and arrests by the police.
