Columbia University Graduation 2025: Acting President Booed Amid “Free Mahmoud” Chants Over Student Detentions

At the Columbia University 2025 graduation ceremony, acting president Claire Shipman was met with loud boos and chants of “Free Mahmoud” as she began her address to the graduating Class of 2025 at Columbia College. The demonstration highlighted ongoing tensions surrounding student activism and immigration enforcement on campus.

Columbia University acting President Claire Shipman

“Free Mahmoud” Chants Disrupt Columbia University Graduation Speech

Videos circulating on social media and official recordings of the event show Shipman walking to the lectern to deliver her speech. While initial applause was present, it was quickly overshadowed by a sustained chorus of jeers and chants demanding the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a graduate student recently detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in his New York City apartment.

Mahmoud Khalil, a Syrian-born green card holder and active organizer of pro-Palestinian rallies at Columbia University, was arrested in March. Since then, he has been held in a detention center in Louisiana, fighting deportation amid the Trump administration’s intensified crackdown on foreign students perceived as threats to U.S. foreign policy.

Acting President Addresses Student Frustration and Free Speech

During her speech, Shipman acknowledged the students’ frustration, stating,
“Good morning, Class of 2025. I know many of you feel some amount of frustration with me, and I know you feel it with the administration,” prompting further boos from the crowd. She reaffirmed Columbia’s commitment to free speech and welcomed ongoing feedback, even as chants of “Free Mahmoud” continued later in the ceremony.

Despite the interruptions, Shipman proceeded with her address, highlighting the university’s role and responsibilities.

Context: Columbia University Amid Controversy and Protests

The graduation took place amid heightened activism on campus, with protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict and increasing scrutiny of international students. Columbia University has become a focal point for debates over free speech, political activism, and immigration enforcement.

Among those recently impacted is Mohsen Mahdawi, a 34-year-old U.S. permanent resident from a refugee camp in the West Bank, who was detained during a citizenship interview in Vermont in April. Following his release on bail, Mahdawi proudly graduated from Columbia’s School of General Studies, earning a bachelor’s degree in philosophy.

Graduate Mohsen Mahdawi Speaks Out on Campus Activism

Mahdawi, who wore a keffiyeh during the ceremony, shared a powerful statement:
“Columbia gave me access to resources and spaces that helped shape me. But it also punished me for using my voice. I was harassed, surveilled, and isolated—for speaking about the realities of life under occupation and advocating for Palestinian dignity.”

He further emphasized the university’s dual role:
“When Columbia silenced students like me, it mirrored the same systems we’re resisting. Yet, I’m proud of the courageous students, faculty, and staff who stood up for justice. I will continue to challenge this institution to live up to its values well beyond graduation day.”

Summary: Columbia University Graduation Highlights Student Activism and Immigration Issues

  • Acting President Claire Shipman faced protests during the Columbia College 2025 graduation ceremony.

  • Students chanted “Free Mahmoud” in support of Mahmoud Khalil, a graduate student detained by ICE.

  • Columbia University remains a hotspot for activism amid political and immigration controversies.

  • Graduate Mohsen Mahdawi’s story highlights the challenges faced by student activists under scrutiny.

  • The university’s commitment to free speech and student rights remains under debate.

  • Columbia University graduation 2025

  • Claire Shipman Columbia University

  • Free Mahmoud chants

  • Mahmoud Khalil ICE detention

  • Columbia University student activism

  • Israel-Hamas conflict campus protests

  • Columbia University commencement ceremony

  • Mohsen Mahdawi Columbia graduate

  • Pro-Palestinian activism Columbia University

  • Immigration crackdown on foreign students