The presidents of Northwestern University, Rutgers University, and the University of Southern California, Los Angeles (UCLA), faced scrutiny over their handling of anti-Semitic incidents on their campuses in light of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. These universities had anti-Semitic, pro-Palestinian encampments that have since been removed. Northwestern President Michael Schill, Rutgers President Jonathan Holloway, and UCLA Chancellor Gene Block defended their actions during a hearing held by the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) criticized the university leaders for allowing anti-Semitic encampments to endanger Jewish students.
Mr. Schill explained that Northwestern had taken disciplinary action against those involved in perpetuating anti-Semitism on campus. While considering removing the encampments, the administration decided against sending in law enforcement due to the potential risks to students, faculty, and officers. Northwestern recently reached an agreement with the encampment members, offering free tuition to select Palestinian students. Some members of the task force on combating anti-Semitism resigned in protest, claiming they were not consulted about the agreement.
At Rutgers, Mr. Holloway highlighted the establishment of an advisory council on anti-Semitism and efforts to foster dialogue between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian students. The university made concessions to protesters, including scholarships for Gazan students and the creation of an Arab Cultural Center on campus. Mr. Block of UCLA issued a warning to encampment participants to remove their structure, which led to a confrontation and police intervention.
The university presidents also faced questions about financial ties and responses to different types of extremist groups. The incidents have prompted reviews of safety protocols and engagement with law enforcement experts. Frederick Lawrence of the Phi Beta Kappa Society also testified during the hearing. Could you please rephrase this sentence?
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