Israel-Gaza War, Columbia

Elite U.S. Jewish grads shun Columbia amid antisemitism storm

A decades-long pipeline dries up as elite Ramaz graduates vote with their feet. Is this the canary in Columbia's coal mine?

Pro-Palestinian supporters set up a protest encampment on the campus of Columbia University in New York as seen on April 22, 2024 (Photo: Shutterstock / lev radin)

In a significant shift, all graduates from Ramaz, an elite Jewish high school on New York's Upper East Side, have chosen not to enroll in Columbia College this year. This marks the first time in over two decades that the prestigious high school hasn't sent a single student to Columbia's premier liberal arts college, as reported by the New York Post.

Ramaz confirmed in a statement that while one student will attend Columbia's School of General Studies and three will enroll at the affiliated Barnard College, none will enter Columbia College. The school cited the "horrific rise in antisemitic instances" at some universities as a factor in providing information to students and families making college decisions.

This development comes amid ongoing tensions at Columbia University. The institution has faced tumultuous anti-Israel protests, some turning destructive, in the wake of the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza. Recent events include the resignation of Columbia's president, Minouche Shafik, and three deans following controversial remarks about Jewish students' concerns.

Rory Lancman, a Jewish civil rights activist and Columbia Law School graduate, stated he would not recommend Jewish students apply to or attend Columbia currently due to antisemitism concerns. "Jewish families are voting with their feet," Lancman said, emphasizing the need for colleges to take antisemitism seriously.

Columbia University declined to comment on the situation.

Columbia Pro-Palestinian Protesters American Jewry USA Antisemitism Israel-Gaza war Operation Swords of Iron IDF

Comments

Do not send comments that include inflammatory words, defamation and content that exceeds the limit of good taste.

The comment was sent successfully.
Soon the response will be examined by our editors and if it is found to be correct it will be published on the website.
The comment was sent successfully.
Soon the response will be examined by our editors and if it is found to be correct it will be published on the website.


Don't Anger Half the Country, Israel

Public prayers for Trump are dangerous for Israel
Arye Yoeli | 11:10

IDF hits PFLP hard

Major IDF crackdown with 60 PFLP operatives captured
Avi Nachmani | 09:24

The most beautiful thing I have read in ages

Here's why this Hasidic singer and influencer is enlisting | The answer will surprise (and inspire) you
1
| Gila Isaacson | 09:09

Why would you trust celebs with this decision? 

How Hollywood celebs could determine the next US presidency 
Gila Isaacson | 08:38

Countdown to Iran attack?

U.S. takes an unusual step in leadup to possible Iran attack
Avi Nachmani | 07:44