Harvard Corporation Confirms Support for President Claudine Gay, Reaffirms Commitment to Fighting Antisemitism

Harvard University President Claudine Gay will remain in her position, the school’s governing board announced Tuesday. The decision follows a week of outcry over Gay’s testimony at a congressional hearing on antisemitism.

The Harvard Corporation, the college’s highest governing body, released a statement expressing their confidence in Gay’s leadership. The statement was signed by the college’s fellows.

“Our extensive deliberations affirm our confidence that President Gay is the right leader to help our community heal and to address the very serious societal issues we are facing,” the statement read. “President Gay has apologized for how she handled her congressional testimony and has committed to redoubling the University’s fight against antisemitism.”

The controversy began when Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik asked Gay if calling for the genocide of Jews violated Harvard’s rules of bullying and harassment. Gay’s response, which some deemed inadequate, sparked a wave of criticism from students, faculty, and alumni.

In the wake of the controversy, Gay issued an apology and promised to take steps to address antisemitism on campus. The Harvard Corporation’s decision to keep her in office is seen as a sign of support for these efforts.