ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – A Cornell donor wants President Martha Pollack and Provost Michael Kotlikoff to resign. 

In an open letter, Jon Lindseth says the university’s dedication to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies has created a toxic environment on campus. He also labelled Pollack’s response to recent examples of antisemitism as “shameful.” In addition, Lindseth blasted Kotlikoff for denigrating Cornell’s academic legacy under DEI, which he wants Cornell to drop.

Lindseth, who has pulled his contributions to the university, is expected to speak at the Board of Trustees meeting in New York City on Friday.

WHCU reached out to Cornell University for comments, who responded with the following:

Kraig H. Kayser, Chair of the Board of Trustees:

“For nearly seven years, I have strongly supported President Pollack, and that support remains strong today. The board is working effectively with the administration to respond to various challenges facing higher education and opportunities to advance the university’s mission.”

Joel M. Malina, Vice President for University Relations:

“We have received the letter, which has been forwarded to the chair of the Cornell University Board of Trustees. Cornell’s trustees are gathering in New York this week as part of a regularly scheduled series of meetings to discuss university affairs. Board meetings are scheduled many years in advance.”