University Statements and Announcements

The University has previously initiated legal action against this group’s unauthorized use of the Columbia name and is exploring additional legal remedies. 

We write to update you on important steps the University has undertaken over the last week to enhance safety and clarify protocols and procedures regarding interactions with law enforcement.

It is deeply disturbing to see doxing trucks outside of our campus today, targeting our students. The University is committed to supporting all members of our community as they study, teach, and work on our campus, and has made clear on multiple occasions that the deliberate harassment and targeting of members of our community by doxing is unacceptable. 

To be clear, CUAD is not a recognized student group and is not affiliated, in any fashion, with the University. We do not know who comprises or leads this anonymous group. The matter has been referred to law enforcement for further investigation. 

Earlier today, Columbia University, StandWithUs Center for Legal Justice, Students Against Antisemitism, Inc., and a majority of the student plaintiffs announced an agreement to resolve the claims asserted in the federal court action Students Against Antisemitism, Inc. et al. v. The Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York et al.

We understand that there are many questions in our community about the timing of the external investigation into the circumstances that enabled horrific abuse and misconduct by former physician Robert Hadden. We will continue to share updates as we have them on our Rebuilding Trust website, which is where the report of the investigator’s findings will be posted once she has completed her investigation.

We are all so relieved that our student, Ellie Aghayeva, has been released from federal custody.

Following Acting President Shipman’s communication earlier this morning, the University is taking the following actions and sharing support resources with our community. 

This morning at approximately 6:30 a.m., federal agents from the Department of Homeland Security entered a Columbia Residential building and detained a student. We are working to gather more information, working to reach the family, and providing legal support.

We are writing to let you know that after careful deliberation and consultation with our student leaders, University Commencement is moving back to Morningside campus.

Dr. Richard Axel has informed the University that he is stepping down as co-director of the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute. As a founding director, Dr. Axel’s vision has guided the Institute since its inception. The University is grateful to Dr. Axel for his scientific contributions and leadership in this innovative endeavor to further understand the brain. 

I have informed Columbia University that I will step down as co-director of the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute to focus on research and teaching in my lab. I also informed HHMI that I will resign my position as an HHMI Investigator.