Higher Education News

The latest higher education stories, summarized by AI

More Higher Education Stories

"UPenn President's Resignation Sparks Speculation on Harvard's Claudine Gay"
higher-education2 years ago

"UPenn President's Resignation Sparks Speculation on Harvard's Claudine Gay"

After University of Pennsylvania President Elizabeth Magill resigned following her testimony before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, Harvard President Claudine Gay is facing mounting calls for her resignation. Gay's refusal to directly answer a question about Harvard's policies on bullying and harassment in relation to calls for the genocide of Jews has sparked backlash. While Gay claims to have the support of the Harvard Corporation, their silence on the matter has left her presidency uncertain. Faculty members have expressed support for Gay, but her fate ultimately lies in the hands of the Corporation.

UPenn Donors Withdraw Funds Over Palestine Writes Literature Festival
higher-education2 years ago

UPenn Donors Withdraw Funds Over Palestine Writes Literature Festival

Donors at the University of Pennsylvania are expressing their anger and frustration over various issues, including the university's response to the Israel-Hamas conflict, a Palestinian conference, DEI initiatives, and transgender rights. The tensions have been simmering for some time, with donors feeling that the university has shifted to the left. Some influential alumni, including Marc Rowan and Ronald S. Lauder, have called for the resignation of the university president and chairman of the board of trustees. Donors have also been cutting funding, citing concerns about the university's direction and declining number of Jewish students. The donor outcry has sparked a debate about the influence of donors on university policies and academic freedom.

MSU Board Chair Vassar Faces Calls for Resignation Amidst Allegations
higher-education2 years ago

MSU Board Chair Vassar Faces Calls for Resignation Amidst Allegations

Rema Vassar, the chair of the Michigan State University board, plans to recommend a university culture and climate assessment in response to allegations made against her, which she has called "fabrications" and "untruths." Trustee Brianna Scott sent a letter calling for Vassar's resignation or removal, citing bullying and overstepping her authority. Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed concern over the allegations. Vassar believes a culture assessment will address the underlying issues and guide the new president in healing the university. The allegations have highlighted divisions among Black political leaders, and an investigation has been triggered by the university's Office of Audit, Risk, and Compliance.