NEW YORK – Rutgers University has made the controversial decision to cancel a planned graduation speech by Rami Elghandour, a prominent business leader and CEO of the biotech company Arcellx, following student protests regarding his social media activity. Elghandour, who is also an alumnus of the university, was slated to deliver the convocation address at the Rutgers School of Engineering on May 15.
The cancellation came after university officials were informed that some graduating students expressed they would boycott the ceremony due to concerns surrounding Elghandour’s comments about Israel on social media. A spokesperson for Rutgers confirmed that the decision was made in light of these concerns, although they did not specify which posts prompted the backlash.
Elghandour has been vocal on social media, frequently sharing articles and videos depicting violence in Gaza and the West Bank. His commentary has accused Israel of war crimes and perpetuating an apartheid system. Additionally, he was involved in producing a documentary titled “The Voice of Hind Rajab,” which tells the story of a Palestinian girl who lost her life due to actions by the Israeli Defense Forces.
This incident reflects a broader trend on college campuses in the United States, where student protests against the ongoing conflict in Gaza have intensified. Such protests have previously led to the cancellation of speeches and disruptions during graduation ceremonies across various universities. Notably, the University of Michigan recently faced its own controversy when a commencement speech by history professor Derek R. Peterson praised pro-Palestinian student activists, leading to threats of funding cuts from Republican officials and donors. This prompted an apology from the university president, which was met with criticism from advocates for free speech in academia.
Elghandour, in a show of support for Peterson, shared a clip of the professor’s speech on X (formerly Twitter), commending him for choosing principle over convenience. This incident has further fueled discussions surrounding academic freedom, speech, and the impact of social media on public discourse.
As the spring commencement season continues, the dialogue surrounding free speech and the responsibilities of educational institutions remains as relevant as ever. The cancellation of Elghandour’s speech raises essential questions about the balance between protecting student sentiments and upholding the values of open discourse in academic settings.
