Columbia University expelled students for building takeover

Columbia University has expelled or suspended some students involved in a building takeover during pro-Palestinian protests last spring. The university's judicial board issued sanctions against dozens of students after evaluating their actions. The university did not specify the number of students affected. Some students who graduated had their diplomas temporarily revoked. This decision follows a lengthy investigation into the April 30, 2024, occupation of Hamilton Hall. The protests escalated when students barricaded themselves inside the building. Police intervened, arresting many participants, but the district attorney later dropped charges against most due to insufficient evidence. Disciplinary hearings for the students continued despite this.