Dean’s Message

Dean Keren Yarhi-Milo’s Statement on Antisemitic Graffiti in Lehman Library

Posted Oct 02 2025

Dear SIPA Community,

On Tuesday, antisemitic graffiti was discovered etched on a desk in Lehman Library. The incident was reported to Columbia Public Safety and the NYPD and is under active investigation. The graffiti was removed at once, and we are working with the authorities to identify those responsible.

Let me be absolutely clear: antisemitism—and all forms of hate—have no place at SIPA. Such acts are an attack on our core values of respect, dialogue, and human dignity, and we condemn them in the strongest possible terms.

To our Jewish community members: we see you, we stand with you, and we will not tolerate hatred directed at you or at anyone in our community. Support resources are available for anyone affected (see below). If you have information that could assist the investigation, please contact Public Safety at 212-854-5555.

This is not who we are. Each of us shares the responsibility to ensure SIPA remains a community where every person feels they belong and is treated with dignity and respect.

Sincerely,

Keren Yarhi-Milo

Dean, School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)
Adlai E. Stevenson Professor of International Relations

Resources for the Community:

To report any concerns, please utilize the Office of Institutional Equity. The Office is a centralized resource to address all reports of discrimination and harassment, including reports of alleged violations of Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, gender based misconduct, as well as reports of violations of the Protection of Minors Policy.

Faculty and staff, please be in touch with your direct supervisor or the Dean’s Office if you need support. You can also utilize the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), a network of free or discounted services to support your personal success when challenges arise. TELUS Health is Columbia's EAP provider. You can also explore the Columbia University HR website to view many additional resources for well-being.

Public Safety, 101 Low Library

Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS), Lerner Hall 5 & 8th Floor

Religious Life, Earl Hall 

  • [email protected]
  • (212) 854-2184
  • Earl Hall and Saint Paul’s Chapel are open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday for reflection, meditation, and prayer