GWU says student anti-Israel graduation speech not the one submitted, rehearsed, launches probe

George Washington University banned a graduate from campus after she gave a speech at a college graduation ceremony that was critical of the university and Israel.

Cecilia Culver spoke at GWU's Columbian College of Arts & Sciences first graduation ceremony on Saturday, during which she criticized the university's disciplining of pro-Palestinian protesters and for refusing to divest from companies connected to Israel, The GW Hatchet reported.

The university's media relations on Monday didn't mention Culver in its statement, but said regarding her speech, "We deeply regret that this moment of special celebration was violated for our students, their families, and other members of our community by this speaker," who graduated in December.

GWU called Culver's actions "inappropriate and dishonest: the speaker submitted and recited in rehearsal very different remarks than those she delivered at the ceremony," adding that she "has been barred from all GW’s campuses and sponsored events elsewhere," and promising to conduct "a thorough review of the incident, and will take appropriate accountability actions."

University officials said they are also aware that some students unfurled signs brought in under their graduation gowns, despite clear guidance to the contrary, during Culver's speech, and that her remarks and the signs "do not reflect the views of the university."

The school also apologized to the graduates and families in attendance and said it was investigating this matter immediately, including whether event protocols were followed properly and whether the students’ actions violated the Code of Conduct.

Culver said during her speech that GWU has “repressed” community members who had the “courage” to point out the “blood” on officials’ hands, instead of engaging in negotiations with students to divest from Israel. She said graduates should withhold their donations to GWU until university officials disclose all financial investments and divest from companies tied to Israel.

“I am ashamed to know my tuition is being used to fund this genocide,” Culver said in her speech.

A letter signed by about 700 community members and graduates was sent to GWU and the college's leadership on Tuesday, calling for college Associate Dean for Academic Innovation Kavita Daiya to apologize for “legitimizing” and “appearing to support” Culver’s statements. 

Following Culver's speech during the ceremony, Daiya said the college represents a variety of viewpoints and thanked Culver for sharing hers.

Daiya's profile is no longer available on the college's administration page.