A Columbia University trustee has called for a return to the values of building over destruction in higher education, highlighting the challenges posed by ideological threats and campus unrest. The piece opens with a reflection on the institution’s historical role as a beacon of intellectual progress, juxtaposed with current challenges that have seen it face threats from both external and internal forces.
The trustee, a scientist and former student, recounts their journey through academia, including earning a doctorate at Columbia, which shaped their life and led to the founding of a biotech company dedicated to advancing treatments for rare diseases. However, the piece shifts to a more critical tone as it describes the recent decline in campus safety, with students feeling increasingly threatened by intimidation and disruption. The trustee notes that this unrest, characterized by protests and the shutdown of academic spaces, has created an environment where the principles of free speech and academic freedom are being undermined.
A key point in the article is the discussion around the impact of these disturbances on students from diverse backgrounds. The trustee cites a report showing that a significant percentage of Jewish and Muslim students feel unsafe on campus, reflecting a broader issue of intolerance and the failure of institutional leadership to address these concerns effectively. The piece also references a Trump administration claim that Columbia University has violated civil rights laws by failing to address the effects of campus protests, further illustrating the complex relationship between free speech, campus safety, and institutional responsibility.
In response to the growing unrest, the trustee emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture that encourages innovation, critical thinking, and non-intimidation. They argue that while destruction may attract attention, it is ultimately short-lived, whereas building—through dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to positive change—leads to lasting impact. The piece calls on educators, parents, and leaders to ensure that institutions like Columbia continue to serve as hubs for innovation and intellectual growth, rather than becoming battlegrounds for ideological conflict.
The conclusion underscores the need for a collective effort to rebuild and strengthen educational institutions, ensuring that they remain inclusive and respectful spaces for all students. The trustee challenges the current generation to take up the mantle of leadership, advocating for a return to the principles that have defined higher education for generations. The piece ultimately presents a call to action, urging individuals to embrace the role of builders in a society that increasingly faces the challenges of division and discord.