Federal agencies to review Columbia University’s contracts, grants after ‘failure’ to protect Jewish students

Columbia University has come under scrutiny after three federal agencies announced they would be reviewing the institution’s contracts and grants due to concerns over its handling of antisemitism on campus. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Education (DoE), and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) revealed that they would be conducting a thorough review of Columbia’s federal funding following allegations of the university’s “apparent failure” to protect Jewish students during on-campus protests against Israel. This development comes amid growing tensions over antisemitism at universities across the United States, with federal officials expressing alarm over what they describe as a failure to safeguard Jewish students from harassment and intimidation.

Columbia University has responded to the announcement by reaffirming its commitment to combating antisemitism and all forms of discrimination. In a statement, the university emphasized that it stands resolutely against any form of violence, terror, or hatred and is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of its community. The university also expressed its willingness to collaborate with the federal government, including the new administration under President Donald Trump, to address the issue of antisemitism. Columbia’s response reflects a broader recognition of the need for universities to take a proactive role in fostering inclusive environments and protecting students from discrimination, particularly as institutions of higher learning face increasing scrutiny over their handling of sensitive issues.

The federal review of Columbia’s funding was announced alongside the Senate’s confirmation of Linda McMahon as the new Secretary of Education. McMahon, who was nominated by President Trump, has been vocal about her priorities, which include addressing campus antisemitism and reevaluating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. In a statement, McMahon highlighted the alarming rise in incidents of antisemitism on college campuses, including physical assaults on Jewish students and disruptions to campus operations. She emphasized the responsibility of universities to protect all students from discrimination, particularly those that receive federal funding. McMahon’s comments suggest a heightened focus on holding universities accountable for ensuring the safety and well-being of Jewish students and combating antisemitism in all its forms.

The GSA, which will play a key role in the review of Columbia’s federal funding, has also weighed in on the issue. Josh Gruenbaum, a commissioner with the Federal Acquisition Service and a member of the Task Force, stated that the GSA is committed to upholding federal acquisition standards and ensuring that government contracts align with the nation’s values, including the fight against antisemitism. Gruenbaum underscored the importance of collaboration across government agencies to address the issue, noting that the federal government will not tolerate antisemitism in institutions of higher education. This statement reflects a broader effort by the Trump administration to use federal funding as a tool for enforcing compliance with its priorities, including the combating of antisemitism.

The decision to review Columbia’s funding comes in the wake of a recent protest at Barnard College, a partner institution of Columbia, where students occupying a building allegedly assaulted security guards, resulting in injuries and significant property damage. The protest was reportedly sparked by the expulsion of two students who had disrupted an Israeli history class by distributing antisemitic flyers targeting Jewish students. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with many expressing concern over the escalating tensions and the apparent toleration of antisemitic behavior on campus. The protest and its aftermath have further highlighted the challenges universities face in balancing free speech with the need to protect students from harassment and intimidation.

The federal review of Columbia University’s contracts and grants serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes involved in addressing antisemitism on campus. As universities navigate the complex landscape of free speech, diversity, and inclusion, they must also contend with increasing scrutiny from federal agencies and lawmakers. The Trump administration’s focus on combating antisemitism has brought renewed attention to the issue, with officials signaling a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination in institutions of higher education. At the same time, the situation at Columbia raises important questions about the role of federal funding in shaping university policies and the balance between robust protections for students and the preservation of academic freedom. As the review proceeds, all eyes will be on Columbia and its response to these challenges, with the outcome likely to have far-reaching implications for universities across the United States.