Jewish donors are increasingly hesitant to contribute to universities where they fear their money might indirectly support antisemitic student groups, faculty, or initiatives. With antisemitic incidents on the rise across many campuses—and some administrations accused of turning a blind eye—many philanthropists are re-evaluating their long-standing relationships with academic institutions. For some, this means redirecting donations toward programs that explicitly support Jewish life or withdrawing support altogether until universities demonstrate a stronger commitment to combating hate and protecting Jewish students.
Yael Lerman, the legal director at StandWithUs, and Jonathan Rotter, who practices with the class action law firm Glancy Prongay & Murray, (representing StandWithUs pro bono) on Friday suggested in an op-ed in eJewishPhilanthropy ways donors can prevent their university gifts from funding antisemitism.
Universities routinely accept donor conditions without hesitation, Lerman and Rotter write. From naming rights to influence over curriculum, donor intent plays a powerful role in shaping academia. Endowed professorships often come with stipulations about academic focus or faculty qualifications—matters that directly intersect with academic freedom. Yet such conditions are common practice and seldom challenged.
With that in mind, structured endowments should include incremental disbursement schedules and enforceable oversight mechanisms. Instead of delivering the full gift upfront, donors can release funds over time, ensuring the university remains accountable to agreed-upon standards. Clawback clauses—which allow donors to reclaim or redirect funds if the institution tolerates antisemitic conduct or otherwise breaches the terms—are not radical. They’re responsible, say the two authors.
In addition to preventing harm, donors can proactively strengthen Jewish life and foster collaboration with Israel through strategic giving. At Rice University, for example, a $1 million endowment supports scholarships for non-U.S. military veterans, with preference given to those who share an understanding of the mission and values of the IDF.
Philanthropy holds significant power, say Lerman and Rotter, and conclude that with clear intent, steadfast commitment, and thoughtful legal planning, donors can ensure their contributions both safeguard Jewish students and uphold the values they cherish.
