University of Pennsylvania President Faces Resignation Calls Amid Donor Crisis Over Palestine Writes Festival Controversy

President Liz Magill's handling of antisemitism allegations around Palestine Writes Literature Festival triggers donor backlash, with multiple influential figures withholding financial support and demanding her resignation.

University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill is facing calls for her resignation following controversy over the Palestine Writes Literature Festival. The Festival was criticized for including speakers who allegedly have a history of making antisemitic remarks. Multiple key donors have withdrawn financial support for the university as a result.
Magill, who has served as President for 18 months, has been accused of mishandling various contentious issues, leading to a widespread donor backlash. This is a stark contrast to her initial appointment, which saw her hailed as a consensus leader.
The controversy has split the UPenn community, with some condemning the university's response to the Hamas attack on Israel, while others have criticized Magill for not doing enough to protect academic freedom amidst the backlash against the Festival.
Many influential individuals have criticized Magill's handling of the affair, with former trustee Vahan Gureghian and major donors such as Jonathon Jacobson, Marc Rowan, and Ronald Lauder demanding her resignation.
Despite this, Magill still has the support of board Chairman Bok and several key figures, including Jon Gray, president of asset manager Blackstone, who will continue his donations to UPenn despite concerns about antisemitism.