Protests against Israel, such as the notable and at times violent demonstrations at Columbia University, point to a societal trend that emphasizes destruction over creativity and innovation, according to Columbia trustee Dr. Shaushan Nashendelman in a recent interview.
“I think it’s quite surprising how rapidly these situations can escalate. It’s not just isolated to campuses either; similar trends are appearing across various contexts in our country,” Nashendelman stated. He serves on the advisory committee for Columbia University Medical Center as well as vice-chairman of Columbia University Physicians and Surgeons.
Of Persian Jewish descent, Nashendelman is recognized as a proactive member of the pro-Israel community, striving to restore order on campus amidst incidents, particularly following the tragic attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023, amid the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In April 2024, an anti-Israel camp was formed at Columbia, prompting the establishment of a second camp after the first was dispersed. This led to tensions with law enforcement when protesters took over Hamilton Hall. The Columbia University anti-Israel camp called for similar movements at other universities, including George Washington University, Yale, MIT, and USC.
“This is a crucial moral decision for us as a country. Are we going to elevate ourselves or regress? Will we create an environment in universities where students critically analyze and grow?” Nashendelman reflected. He expressed concern that if these disruptive trends continue, they could hamper the potential of today’s youth. “I feel fortunate to be in a leadership position—by setting an example, we can guide our generation toward rebuilding.”
“We must return to a focus on construction as a nation,” he continued. “What I hope listeners take away from this is the importance of setting an example and educating the next generation to build for the future.”
Nashendelman shared that he believes many are “searching for purpose in their lives,” which may drive some toward disruptive behaviors in academic environments. “While it’s tempting to adopt a loud and destructive approach, it’s far more challenging, and ultimately more rewarding, to reflect on how to contribute positively to the world,” he added.
“It’s very easy to participate in protests and occupy spaces. The harder task involves introspection and real effort to contribute meaningfully. Just fleeting activism really doesn’t lead to sustained change.”
He underscored that cultural improvements begin “at home,” yet emphasized the necessity for universities to foster an atmosphere of “diversity of opinion” and adherence to peaceful discourse.
“It’s essential as parents and educators to instill values early on—choosing paths that are positive and constructive takes effort and time. We can lead by example, but we must also teach the value of these principles from a young age,” he remarked.
“Institutions, particularly those shaping our future leaders, need to cultivate environments rich in diverse perspectives,” he concluded. “Promoting freedom of speech and the willingness to listen to various viewpoints is vital for growth and understanding.”
