St Andrew's rector's dismissal from her position on the university court and as a university trustee

2 August 2024

StandWithUs UK welcomes the news of St Andrew's rector's dismissal from her position on the university court and as a university trustee. This decision underscores the importance of upholding the values of respect and integrity within academic institutions. She accused Israel of “apartheid” and “genocide” in a letter to all St Andrew’s students, and the KC’s report says that she has caused reputational damage to the university and that much work would be needed to restore trust and confidence in her.

Jewish students have expressed fear and concerns of being targeted following her communication since the October 7 massacre and subsequent war. 

We are proud that an Emerson Alumni of ours, Annie, stood up to the university about the Rector's conduct. Annie demonstrated bravery in stepping up to support her fellow Jewish students.

This is a positive step towards ensuring that educational leaders embody the principles of inclusivity and respect. Her statements have suggested a dismissal of Jewish and pro-Israel students’ emotions in such a turbulent time, and we hope that the university's further deliberations regarding her role will take this into account.

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About StandWithUs UK:

StandWithUs is an international, non-profit and non-partisan Israel education organisation that works to inspire and educate people of all ages about Israel, as well as challenge misinformation and fight against antisemitism. Founded in 2010, StandWithUs UK has become a recognised support system and leading resource for students on UK campuses. We empower and energise students and communities with leadership training and educational programmes on both school and university campuses. StandWithUs informs through social media, printed materials, digital platforms, film and newsletters. The StandWithUs flagship Emerson Fellowship programme seeks to raise students into future leaders, equipped to stand strong in the face of antisemitism and anti-Zionism. We believe in the right of the Jewish People to self-determination in their historic homeland of Israel. We educate the facts in an unbiased and holistic manner, with an open mind, reflecting on views from all sides of the political, social and humanitarian spectrum whilst promoting peace. StandWithUs UK believe the current discourse surrounding Israel on campus all too often crosses the line between legitimate criticism of Israel’s policies and the dangerous, mainstream, antisemitic rhetoric which stands contrary to the IHRA definition of antisemitism. We work to educate on that distinction, encourage civil discourse on legitimate criticism of Israel, and to fight antisemitism wherever it emerges.