New York, May 16 – (New York University) NYU diploma withheld of graduating senior Logan Rozos after he used his commencement speech to condemn the violence in Gaza. Selected by peers at NYU’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study, Rozos criticized Israel’s military actions and U.S. support during the ceremony.
During Wednesday’s event, Rozos called the violence “genocide” and highlighted U.S. political and military backing. His speech received cheers from students and some faculty applause, but university officials strongly condemned the remarks.
University spokesperson John Beckman said Rozos violated event rules by misrepresenting his speech and breaking commitments. Beckman added, “The university is withholding his diploma while pursuing disciplinary actions.”
Rozos, a Cultural Criticism and Political Economy major, has not responded publicly. Gallatin traditionally empowers students to express their views through commencement speeches.
Reactions to NYU’s decision are divided. The Anti-Defamation League condemned Rozos’ speech as “divisive and false” and supported NYU’s response. Meanwhile, the Council on American-Islamic Relations criticized the diploma withholding, calling it a violation of free speech.
This controversy comes amid rising tensions at NYU, where over 180 conduct cases related to Gaza protests have surfaced in 2024, including arrests.
As of May 16 in New York, the NYU diploma withheld continues to fuel debate on free expression and campus activism.
