Columbia University expels 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 2024 occupation of Hamilton Hall. The protests escalated when students barricaded themselves inside the building. Police intervened, arresting many participants, but most faced no criminal charges. Disciplinary hearings continued for those involved, leading to the recent sanctions.