Wexner Foundation Terminates Relations with Harvard due to Concerns over Hamas Stance

Last Updated on October 17, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: Wexner Foundation Ends Support for Harvard University Amidst Israel Controversy

Word Count: 345

The prestigious Wexner Foundation has recently announced its decision to sever ties and withdraw financial support from Harvard University. The move comes in response to criticism from donors regarding the university’s handling of the recent Hamas terror attacks against Israel, as well as an anti-Israel statement issued by student groups.

The leaders of the Wexner Foundation expressed their disappointment with Harvard’s lack of clear and unequivocal condemnation of the attacks on Israeli civilians. Former Harvard President, Larry Summers, also criticized the university for not distancing itself from the student groups’ statement.

Israeli billionaire Idan Ofer and his wife, Batia, had previously resigned from a Harvard executive board in protest of the university’s response to the terrorist attacks. This further underscored the growing concerns surrounding Harvard’s stance on the matter.

In an effort to clarify its position, Harvard reiterated its condemnation of the attacks and terrorism in a statement, expressing gratitude for the Wexner Foundation’s support throughout the years. Harvard President, Claudine Gay, released a video statement reaffirming the university’s rejection of terrorism and hate, while also emphasizing its commitment to free expression.

However, the Wexner Foundation cited a broader issue of diminishing tolerance for diverse perspectives at Harvard, expressing concerns about the impact it has had on their Israel Fellows program. This decision reflects a growing trend of influential donors taking a stand on issues they feel strongly about and exercising their influence accordingly.

It is worth noting that the Wexner Foundation’s founder, Leslie Wexner, has faced controversy in the past due to his association with convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein. While the decision to end support for Harvard is unrelated to this controversy, it serves as a reminder of the complex nature of influential individuals and their involvement in various institutions.

Harvard University now faces the challenge of navigating the loss of financial support from a prominent donor and addressing the concerns raised by both the Wexner Foundation and other stakeholders. Nevertheless, the university remains committed to maintaining its reputation as a leading educational institution while striving for a balance between diverse perspectives and unequivocal condemnation of hatred and terrorism.