CUNY’s chancellor will maintain his position at the largest public urban university in the U.S., amid rising criticism of anti-Israel protests at campuses, including Brooklyn College, as reported.
The board of trustees recently evaluated Felix Matos Rodriguez’s performance, who has been in the role since 2019, and confirmed his continuation overseeing 25 institutions, which include 11 senior colleges, seven community colleges, and other specialized schools.
“He’s staying,” said Bill Thompson, the board president, affirming support for him.
Another official noted, “Ferro has significant backing from the board. He’s not going anywhere.”
Sources indicated that Matos Rodriguez received praise for his leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic, before the recent string of intense protests related to Gaza.
Last Thursday, a protest at Brooklyn College escalated into a clash between anti-Israel demonstrators and police, resulting in the establishment of a tent camp. At least 14 individuals were arrested during the altercation, according to the NYPD.
A bipartisan group of nine state legislators criticized Matos Rodriguez in a letter following the unrest, urging swift action from Brooklyn College.
“It’s unacceptable that, nearly two years after October 7th, we are still dealing with destructive behavior against Jewish students, including camps and masked agitators on campus,” the letter stated.
City Council member Inna Vernikov, one of the signatories, called for Matos Rodriguez to resign if he doesn’t bring order. “There are two ways to end this pro-terrorist chaos on campus—he either needs to step up or step down,” she mentioned.
In another incident last year, anti-Israel protests caused over $3 million in damages and heightened security needs at taxpayer-funded City College in Upper Manhattan.
Matos Rodriguez, the first Hispanic chancellor earning $670,000 annually, enjoys the support of a board appointed by the state governor and mayor.
His continued leadership comes amid rumors of his potential resignation. Matos Rodriguez expressed his commitment to CUNY, stating he is dedicated to serving the community as much as possible.
Recently, he participated in Mother’s Day celebrations at Queens College, spending two hours with families of autistic children.
In response to a letter from a lawmaker, Matos Rodriguez defended his actions regarding the Brooklyn College protests. “That’s why, on May 8, when protesters breached CUNY policy, Brooklyn College President Michelle Anderson adhered to our protocols and sought NYPD assistance,” he remarked.
He clarified that the college library was closed merely as a precaution due to nearby protests and emphasized that they are conducting an investigation into any possible violations by faculty, staff, or students.
Additionally, he noted that Brooklyn College and CUNY are increasing support for the Jewish student group Hillel, asserting a commitment to combating anti-Semitism and ensuring a safe environment for all students.
Concerns linger, especially regarding a report commissioned to address rising anti-Semitism on CUNY campuses in 2023. An analysis published last September, overseen by former Chief Justice Jonathan Lipman, concluded that CUNY needs extensive reforms to address unexpected increases in anti-Semitic incidents among faculty and students.
Matos Rodriguez previously led Queens College and Hostos Community College and has also served as Cabinet Secretary for the Puerto Rico Department of Family Services. He is scheduled to testify before the city council regarding the local budget for higher education on Thursday.
