A veteran Columbia University professor has resigned in protest over the institution's decision to allow a controversial faculty member who made statements supporting the October 7 Hamas attack to teach a course on Zionism.
Lawrence "Muzzy" Rosenblatt announced his resignation after learning that Professor Joseph Massad would be teaching the course. Massad had previously made statements praising the October 7 attacks in Israel that killed over 1,200 people.
Rosenblatt is a leader in homelessness advocacy and nonprofit management with over 30 years of experience. As CEO of Bowery Residents' Committee (BRC) for the past 20 years, he has grown the organization to serve 10,000 people annually through 30+ programs, with a $196 million operating budget and 1,300 staff. Under his leadership, BRC has earned numerous accolades and become one of NYC's most respected charities. Previously, he served in NYC government, including as Acting Commissioner of the Department of Homeless Services. Named one of the country's top 50 nonprofit leaders, Rosenblatt advises cities worldwide on homelessness issues and has co-authored books on the subject. He holds degrees from Wesleyan University and NYU's Wagner School.
In response to Rosenblatt's resignation, Columbia University issued a brief statement: "We're sad to see you go but respect your conviction."
This controversy follows several other high-profile resignations and disputes at major universities related to institutional responses to the October 7 attacks and subsequent war.
University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill resigned following criticism of her congressional testimony about antisemitism on campus.
The university has not announced any changes to Massad's teaching assignment in response to the resignation.
