Billionaire Halts Funding to Columbia University

Billionaire Mortimer Zuckerman has halted his $200 million donation to Columbia University due to the institution's perceived failure to address rising anti-Semitism and anti-Israel radicalism on campus since October 7. Zuckerman, a Jewish philanthropist, expressed concerns about Columbia's governance and handling of campus anti-Semitism, leading to the pause in funding. Columbia faced criticism for not addressing anti-Semitic incidents, including protests and derogatory remarks by deans. Zuckerman, a significant donor to Jewish and pro-Israel causes, had pledged the donation in 2012 for interdisciplinary neuroscience research at Columbia. The university's reputation and mission are now questioned as Zuckerman evaluates the situation, hoping for a restoration of trust and governance at the educational institution.