US’ Sonoma State University president placed on leave after reaching deal with pro-Palestine students

By Iclal Turan

WASHINGTON (AA) - California State University (CSU) placed Sonoma State campus President Mike Lee on leave after he announced in an email that the school reached a deal with pro-Palestine campus protestors on several points, including a process to pursue divestment from Israel, said administrators.

According to Lee's email posted by the SSU Students for Justice in Palestine student group, the president and students agreed to establish an Advisory Council of Students for Justice in Palestine, disclose investments and divestment, academic boycott of institutions related to Israel, recognize Palestinian identity and introduce a historic curriculum, and release a statement in support of a permanent cease-fire in Gaza.

CSU Chancellor Mildred Garcia​ said Lee's message to the campus community on the deal with campus protesters was sent "without the appropriate approvals."

"For now, because of this insubordination and consequences it has brought upon the system, President Lee has been placed on administrative l​eave," said Garcia, noting that Lee, the board’s leadership and herself were "actively reviewing the matter."

It is unclear how long Lee will be on leave.