Sonoma State University President Mike Lee has been placed on administrative leave by California State University Chancellor Mildred García for agreeing to meet demands from anti-Israel student protesters without the appropriate approvals. This decision was made after Lee published an official email in which he agreed to include students in efforts to divest the university from Israel and make other concessions. In response to this, García stated that Lee’s actions constituted insubordination and led to consequences for the system, resulting in his removal from his position temporarily.
The email approved various concessions to protesters, including the creation of a Students for Justice in Palestine advisory council, an academic boycott of Israeli universities, expansion of Palestinian Studies programs at the school, and a demand for a ceasefire in Gaza. Screenshots of the email were celebrated by the Sonoma State chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine with the caption “Brick by brick, wall by wall!” In response to Lee’s actions, García announced that she was working with the university board to review the matter and that additional details would be provided in the future.
Lee later clarified that the email agreeing to protesters’ demands was sent by his unilateral decision and did not represent the wider California University system. Deputy Vice Chancellor Dr. Nathan Evans was immediately appointed as the acting president of Sonoma State University following Lee’s removal. García emphasized the importance of supporting and uplifting all members of the California State University as educators, and acknowledged the impact that the statement has had on the Sonoma State community, particularly for students and community members who may find it challenging and painful.
García further emphasized the commitment of the California State University system to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals they serve, rather than marginalizing any specific community. Sonoma State University, with a student body of approximately 6,500 students, is one of the smallest members of the California State University system. The situation has sparked discussions about the appropriate approvals necessary for making major decisions, particularly those with potential political implications. The actions taken by García and the university board in response to Lee’s email reflect a commitment to upholding the values of inclusivity, respect, and integrity within the educational setting.
