Columbia University to pay $221 million for failing to protect Jewish students

Columbia University, a member of the U.S. Ivy League, has reached a settlement with the U.S. President Donald Trump administration in a federal investigation launched over allegations of discrimination against Jewish students. Under the agreement, the university has committed to paying $200 million in compensation over the next 3 years. Columbia University's interim President Claire Shipman stated yesterday, "This agreement is an important step following a long period of federal review and institutional uncertainty; the institutional uncertainty is coming to an end."

U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said in a statement regarding the agreement reached with Columbia, "Columbia's reforms are a roadmap for elite universities seeking to regain the trust of the American people."

TRUMP PLEASED WITH THE DECISION

U.S. President Trump said in a post on Truth Social, "I am pleased to announce that the Trump administration has reached a historic agreement with Columbia University. Columbia has agreed to pay a $200 million fine to the U.S. government for violating federal law. It will also pay over $20 million in compensation to its Jewish employees who were illegally targeted and harassed. Columbia has committed to ending its absurd inclusive policies, admitting students solely on merit, and protecting the civil liberties of students on campus. Many other higher education institutions that have harmed numerous people, acted unjustly and unfairly, and misused federal funds, much of which comes from our government, are next in line. It is a great honor to be involved in this process. I offer my thanks and congratulations to Secretary Linda McMahon and all the staff who worked with us on this important agreement. I also offer my thanks and appreciation to Columbia University for agreeing to do the right thing. I look forward to them having a brighter future in our country than perhaps ever before."

STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN PROTESTS EXPELLED

The university administration announced that it would impose disciplinary actions, including suspension, expulsion, and degree revocation, on more than 70 students who participated in pro-Palestinian demonstrations held in front of the main library in May and in the encampment set up during graduation week last year.

During the investigation process conducted against it, the university had faced the risk of losing billions of dollars in public support with the cancellation of federal grants exceeding $400 million.

News Source: İHA