Official announcements or press releases from Columbia University

Columbia University Removes Deans Kromm, Patashnick, Chang-Kim Over Antisemitic Texts

Jul 8, 2024, 03:41 PM

Columbia University has removed three deans, Cristen Kromm, Matthew Patashnick, and Susan Chang-Kim, from their positions after text messages containing antisemitic tropes were revealed. The texts were sent during a forum on Jewish issues in May. University President Nemat Shafik described the sentiments in the messages as 'unacceptable and deeply upsetting.' Although the deans have been placed on indefinite leave and will undergo antisemitism training, they remain employed by the university. The incident has prompted Columbia to implement antisemitism training for its staff. The university's actions have been met with mixed reactions, with some criticizing the decision to keep the deans employed. The texts were sent during a forum on Jewish issues in May, and the scandal has connections to the Gaza protests.