YSU denies Holocaust studies professor's appeal for reinstatement

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Youngstown State University has denied Holocaust studies professor, Dr. Jacob Ari Labendz's appeal for reinstatement.
Despite public outcry from students, alumni, community members and scholars from around the world, University Provost, Brien Smith and the YSU Administration denied Dr. Labendz's appeal.
In January, students led a rally outside of Tod Hall and submitted a formal 160-page packet to the administration which included a petition with over 900 signatures, letters written by students and further details regarding Dr. Labendz's role and involvement on campus and in the community.
Additionally, prominent historical organizations such as the American Historical Association and the Ohio Academy of History wrote letters to Provost Smith urging him to reinstate Labendz.
The Islamic Society of Greater Youngstown and Youngstown Area Jewish Federation also wrote a joint letter to the administration in support of Holocaust studies and Islamic studied programs.
Despite worldwide support, Dr. Labendz received a notice from the Provost stating that the appeal committee "did not provide me sufficient reasoning to reverse the non-reappointment decision."
Provost Smith has stated that the reason for not reinstating Dr. Labendz was due to "program curtailment."
In the fall of 2021, YSU had decided to "sunset" 26 academic programs which affected many programs and faculty including the History program that house Labendz with an additional seven faculty members fired in February.
YSU Director of Communications, Ron Cole tells 21 News that the university is currently in discussion on many levels across the campus and the community regarding the Center for Judaic and Holocaust Studies and its future leadership and direction.
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