Columbia University is currently facing a dilemma as some of its major donors are considering whether to continue supporting the institution. Tensions on campus have escalated due to pro-Palestinian protests, leading these billionaire benefactors to believe that the handling of anti-Semitism by the university leadership is inadequate.
Robert Kraft, chairman and CEO of Kraft Group, condemned the anti-Israel protests at Columbia University and accused the institution of failing to protect the safety of Jewish students. Earlier on Monday, Columbia’s President, Minouche Shafik, announced that all classes for the day would be conducted online in an effort to “ease tensions.”
In a statement, Kraft expressed, “I am unwilling to support this university until corrective actions are taken. I hope Columbia University and its leadership can bravely confront this hatred, immediately cease these protest activities, and strive to regain the respect and trust of many who have lost confidence in the institution.”
Kraft, also the founder of the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism and owner of the New England Patriots, has donated millions to Columbia University. In 2000, the university established the Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life in his name, and in 2007, a sports field was dedicated to him as a token of appreciation for his generous contributions.
While this Jewish alumni of Columbia University released the above statement, pro-Palestinian protests on campus continue to intensify. Demonstrating students have set up tents on the campus grounds, protesting against Israel’s actions in Gaza. Last week, the university president authorized the New York police to assist in dismantling the tents and arrested over a hundred students as the protesters refused to leave.
Billionaire and hedge fund manager Leon Cooperman did not explicitly state an immediate suspension of support to the university. However, he told CNBC, “I am concerned about what is happening at the school,” and remarked that the students are “out of control.”
Entrepreneur and founder of Access Industries, Len Blavatnik, told the New York Post, “The leadership at Columbia University must take immediate steps to ensure that Jewish students are protected from threats and intimidation, and that those who violate policies are held accountable.”
According to the New York Post, Cooperman, Blavatnik, and Kraft combined have donated nearly $100 million to Columbia University.