Harvard Kennedy School takes any allegation of bias or discrimination very seriously. In a complaint last year, students alleged that they were treated differently in class from other students based on their identity as Jewish Israelis and that their treatment had created a hostile learning environment.
Consistent with the law and with Harvard University and Harvard Kennedy School policies, the School brought in an experienced outside fact-finder to determine what had happened and to consider the facts in the context of the University’s and School’s policies. The investigator reviewed documentary evidence and interviewed at length both the students and Professor Ganz to hear their perspectives. All parties were given the opportunity to present evidence and to review and comment on preliminary findings.
Following the finding of discrimination, Dean Douglas Elmendorf consulted with three senior faculty members to advise him on appropriate action and prevention of future incidents. The Dean then took action responsive to the allegations. The School does not disclose the details of personnel actions.