Marc Porzecanski’s Post

My reaction to what's playing out at Penn has gone from outrage to bewilderment. Ironically, I think the Liz Magill debacle will one day be the subject of an HBS case study. It will be the story of a President who embarrassed the University, and the story of a Board whose inaction has made it worse.  Liz Magill's testimony was reprehensible and offensive. It was so out-of-touch with reality that I haven't heard anyone defend it. I can't tell whether the lawyer who prepped her was misguided, or whether she failed to elegantly articulate a First Amendment argument, or whether she secretly wants the destruction of the State of Israel. Regardless, nobody in any position of authority can get up there, give that testimony in public, and keep their job. Or can they?  How could Penn's Board not act?  What are they thinking? Magill has embarrassed the University and cost it hundreds of millions of dollars in donations.  This is seemingly the easiest decision ever. I only have a handful of ideas: (1) She's otherwise doing a terrific job and the University would be at a tremendous loss without her. But this doesn't seem likely. (2) The Board doesn't want to ruffle feathers. But this isn't likely either. The Board is a "who's who" of accomplished people. They aren't people who are sheepish. (3) The Board is scared to act. Maybe... but why? I can't imagine anyone would fault them for letting her go. Does she have leverage on the school somehow? Maybe, I don't know.  The Board's reluctance to act will be the focus of the HBS case study.  If Magill had any semblance of graciousness or self-awareness, she’d simply resign, with the hope that the University could recover from her callous testimony. But it’s irresponsible -- and perhaps a violation of its duty of care -- for the Board to continue to allow her to lead. You’re either against her, or you’re with her. You’re either opposed to what she’s said, or you’re complicit by continuing to endorse her.  Penn needs a President who will stand up to antisemitism and keep the community safe. Same goes for Harvard and the rest of the like-minded defenders of "contextual" genocide. Let’s move on and try to restore honor to these fine institutions.