Three Columbia University administrators removed over allegedly anti-Semitic text messages after campus protests

NEW YORK — Columbia University has fired three administrators after they sent text messages that “disturbingly evoked ancient anti-Semitic tropes.”

Columbia President Minouche Shafik called the text messages “unacceptable and deeply disturbing, reflecting a lack of seriousness about the concerns and experiences of members of our Jewish community,” in a letter sent to the university community today.

The directors have been placed on indefinite leave and will not return to their previous positions.

Cristen Kromm, who was dean of undergraduate student life, Matthew Patashnick, who was associate dean of student and family support, and Susan Chang-Kim, who was associate dean and chief administrative officer, have all been removed from their positions.

Columbia College Dean Josef Sorett also exchanged messages with trustees but will remain in his post.

“Dean Josef Sorett is also writing directly to the Columbia College community to address his role in this incident, apologize, and outline the steps he will take to restore trust and accountability,” Shafik wrote.

Starting this fall, all Columbia students, faculty and staff will be required to complete anti-discrimination training that will include anti-Semitism.