EDUCATION
New College of Florida set to punish student protesters following boos at commencement

New College President Richard Corcoran said the school could withhold degrees from students who protested.

Steven Walker
Sarasota Herald-Tribune
Published 4:03 a.m. ET May 29, 2024 | Updated 9:06 a.m. ET May 30, 2024

New College of Florida is moving forward with disciplinary action against some students who participated in protests at the college’s commencement ceremony on May 17, according to a statement from the college and documents obtained by the Herald-Tribune.

In a statement, New College said it had filed five conduct violation complaints related to the school’s student code of conduct. A copy of a letter sent to a New College graduate and obtained by the Herald-Tribune states that a student protester had “(Failed) to Respond to Instruction” in reference to disruptive conduct.

New College President Richard Corcoran said in a statement that students could face consequences ranging from withholding degrees until they issue an apology letter or take mandatory classes on civil discourse to suspension or expulsion from New College. Rescinding an issued diploma in higher education is rare — typically reserved for instances of plagiarism or cheating.

Prior to graduation, New College had posted an expectation of students to “conduct themselves in an appropriate manner, demonstrating respect for fellow graduates, guests, and speakers” … ”We support and protect the right of free speech while resolutely insisting upon civil discourse,” New College’s statement read. “Disruptive activities by a few individuals at a ceremonial event attended by hundreds is not representative of either of these principles.”

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