Vandalism in IAB
Dear SIPA Community,
This afternoon, the women’s restrooms on the 4th, 6th, 14th and 15th floors were vandalized with a cement-like substance causing the toilets to clog. In addition, red spray-painted graffiti depicting images and some harmful messages was found in the 15th floor restroom. Columbia University Facilities and Operations, Public Safety and law enforcement were notified immediately and the situation is being actively investigated. Needless to say, these acts violate university policy and the perpetrators will be subject to discipline.
The graffiti has been removed and Facilities staff will be working throughout the night to assess and repair the damage to the building’s plumbing and infrastructure. We will update you on the status of the impacted restrooms as soon as possible.
This incident is deplorable, disruptive and deeply unsettling – as our campus is a space we cherish for learning, teaching, and working– and it will not be tolerated. I am grateful to the SIPA and University staff who responded swiftly and who continue to address the situation to restore normal operations at IAB.
As a reminder, the Public Safety team is available at any time of day, every day and they have increased their presence at IAB. You can also access same day health, well-being, and counseling offices and resources.
Students, please reach out to OSA or your Advisor if you need assistance, and faculty and staff, please be in touch with your direct supervisor or the Dean’s Office if you need support.
Thank you for your patience as we work to address this incident.
Keren Yarhi-Milo
Dean, School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)
Adlai E. Stevenson Professor of International Relations
Columbia University
New York, NY