Columbia University’s policy-making senate votes for resolution calling to investigate school’s leadership

The Columbia University Senate voted on a resolution to investigate the school's leadership amid anti-Israel protests that have been going on for more than a week.

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik leaves the Low Memorial Library on the campus of Columbia University April 24, 2024, in New York City. (Fox News Digital)

The university senate does not have the authority to remove Shafik, as it is the university’s policy-making body, which is made up of students, faculty and administrators.

"The administration and Senate share the same goal of restoring calm to campus, so everyone can pursue their educational activities," the university said. "We are committed to an ongoing dialogue and appreciate the Senate’s constructive engagement in finding a pathway forward."

Shafik has increasingly faced calls to step down amid the spread of antisemitism on campus as well as ongoing protests against Israel that have disrupted classes. 

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ACCEPTED TO COLUMBIA SAYING 'NO THANK YOU' DUE TO ANTISEMITISM: COLLEGE CONSULTANT

Anti-Israel agitators rally outside Columbia University April 23, 2024, in New York City. (Jeenah Moon/Getty Images)

On Monday, Shafik said in a statement she was "deeply saddened" by certain actions of agitators, who have formed an "encampment" on the campus and riled up students and faculty with anti-Jewish slogans and chants. 

The protest encampment sprung up on the campus lawn area at Columbia April 17, the same day Shafik faced bruising criticism at a congressional hearing from Republicans who said she hadn't done enough to fight antisemitism. Two other Ivy League presidents resigned months ago following widely criticized testimony they gave to the same committee. 

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U.S. House Republicans from New York have urged Shafik to resign, saying in a letter Monday she had failed to provide a safe learning environment in recent days as "anarchy has engulfed the campus."

Fox News' CB Cotton and Bradford Betz contributed to this report.

Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital.

Story tips and can be sent to Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.

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