A recent report by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has cast a spotlight on the pervasive issue of antisemitism within U.S. higher education. The 2025 Campus Antisemitism Report Card assigned failing grades to thirteen universities, underscoring significant concerns about the safety and well-being of Jewish students across the nation.
The institutions that received “F” grades include:
- Barnard College
- The New School
- Columbia University
- Harvard University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- University of Chicago
- Princeton University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Rutgers University
- University of Washington
These institutions were evaluated based on their policies, responses to incidents, and overall commitment to combating antisemitism on campus. The ADL’s findings are particularly alarming in light of recent events that have heightened tensions and challenges for Jewish communities nationwide.
- Barnard College: The institution’s grade dropped from a C to a D following protests that escalated to the violent occupation of an administrative building. The administration’s response was perceived as insufficient, failing to adequately address the severity of the situation.
- The New School: Receiving an F grade, The New School faced criticism for its handling of anti-Israel and antisemitic activities, including building occupations and the promotion of antisemitic messages.
- Columbia University: With a D grade, Columbia experienced disruptive protests and incidents of antisemitic vandalism, raising concerns about the administration’s effectiveness in maintaining a safe environment for Jewish students.
The federal government has taken notice of these findings. The Trump administration initiated a review of Columbia University’s federal grants and contracts, totaling $5 billion, due to allegations of inadequate action against antisemitism during campus protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. This review involves multiple federal agencies and could result in significant financial repercussions for the institution.
Additionally, political figures have proposed measures to withhold federal funding from universities perceived as insufficiently addressing antisemitism. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise suggested that a potential second Trump administration might revoke accreditation for institutions like Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania, and Columbia University if they fail to take stronger stances against antisemitic activities on campus.
The ADL’s report serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Jewish students in higher education. The rise in antisemitic incidents, including physical assaults, harassment, and vandalism, has left many feeling unsafe and unsupported. While some universities have made progress in addressing these issues, the report indicates that a significant number still fall short in adequately protecting their Jewish student populations.
In response to these challenges, initiatives like “Our CampUs United” have emerged. Launched by Mandana Dayani, a former executive at Archewell, in collaboration with Jewish students, the platform provides resources such as advocacy email templates and guides to address antisemitic incidents. This initiative aims to empower Jewish students and foster a supportive campus community.
The ADL’s 2025 Campus Antisemitism Report Card has illuminated significant shortcomings in how certain U.S. universities address antisemitism. The failing grades and subsequent governmental actions highlight the urgent need for educational institutions to reassess and strengthen their policies and responses to ensure the safety and inclusion of Jewish students. As this issue continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how universities and policymakers will collaborate to create environments where all students can learn free from hate and discrimination.