The New College of Florida is taking disciplinary action against five students for disrupting the commencement ceremony by chanting pro-Palestinian slogans. These actions included booing the speaker and shouting “free Palestine.”
The students face consequences such as enrollment in a civil discourse class, suspension, expulsion, or withholding of their diplomas.
In a recent op-ed, New College President Richard Corcoran expressed disappointment over the disruptive behavior of students during the ceremony, highlighting a concerning lack of tolerance for diverse opinions in society.
Corcoran emphasized that such an illiberal attitude will not govern New College. Withholding a degree is an uncommon step typically reserved for cases of plagiarism or academic dishonesty.
New College, under Gov. Ron DeSantis, prioritizes fostering respectful political discussions to distinguish itself from left-leaning higher education institutions.
Changes include eliminating the DEI office and gender studies program to encourage open discourse and oppose ideological uniformity.
Enforcing the Student Code of Conduct underscores the commitment to order and respect.
The institution’s restructuring challenges left-leaning academia norms by appointing conservative trustees and making decisions like removing the president and dissolving diversity initiatives.
This transformation led to a significant number of faculty members resigning, uncomfortable with the shift towards institutional neutrality and promoting academic dialogue.
Before the recent graduation ceremony, students were reminded of behavior expectations, emphasizing respect for all attendees.
The school affirmed its support for free speech while insisting on civil discourse, condemning disruptive behavior during the ceremony as not reflective of these values.
