The president of Sonoma State University in Northern California was placed on administrative leave earlier this week after striking a controversial agreement with pro-Palestine campus protesters.
On Tuesday, university President Mike Lee sent out a campus-wide message agreeing to meet the demands from students protesting the war in Gaza.
Lee reportedly agreed to declare an academic boycott on Israeli universities, establish a Palestinian curriculum and review the school’s investments in companies supporting Israel. The agreement was declared a win by pro-Palestine protesters.
California State University Chancellor Mildred GarcÃa said the message was sent “without the appropriate approvals” and that “because of this insubordination and consequences it has brought upon the system” Lee was placed on leave.
“I want to acknowledge how deeply concerned I am about the impact the statement has had on the Sonoma State community, and how challenging and painful it will be​ for many of our students and community members to see and read,” GarcÃa said.
“The heart and mission of the CSU is to create an inclusive and welcoming place for everyone we serve​, not to marginalize one community over another,” she said.​
Garcia said Nathan Evans, deputy vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, will serve as acting president of Sonoma State.
Colleges and universities throughout California have faced protests and encampments by students opposing the destruction caused by Israel’s was against the Hamas terrorist group in Gaza. Police have been called to multiple campuses to end the protests, and some of the students involved have been arrested and suspended.