NEW YORK (VINnews) — The New School, a private university in Manhattan known for its programs in design, social research and the arts, said Saturday it rejected a student government vote to defund and cut ties with the campus chapter of Hillel International, stating the student body does not have the authority to take such action.

The university said its student senate voted Friday to strip funding and halt collaboration with the Jewish student organization, citing concerns over its connections to Israel-related programs, including activities involving the Israeli military.

School officials said Saturday that the student senate cannot determine the official status or funding eligibility of recognized student organizations, and that the campus Hillel chapter remains in good standing.

The vote appeared to be an unprecedented move by a student government targeting Hillel, which has long served as a central hub for Jewish student life on U.S. campuses.

The dispute comes amid heightened tensions on college campuses following the outbreak of the Gaza war after the October 7 attacks, with activism and debate over Israel intensifying nationwide.

Supporters of the measure said it was based on policy concerns related to international law, while Jewish organizations and advocates criticized the effort as discriminatory.

University officials said they are taking steps to address the student senate’s action and ensure it operates within its authority, reaffirming a commitment to preventing discrimination and supporting all student groups.