We were deeply troubled and saddened to learn about the vandalism of the Sukkah at the Hillel off-campus center at Miami University, and we empathize with the Jewish community at the distress and fear the incident caused.

Oxford Police Department conducted an investigation of the vandalism. Although the names of the students involved have been released by the police department, Miami cannot share information regarding any on-going campus investigations or disciplinary actions underway due to the privacy protections of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

Miami is committed to cultivating a welcoming and safe environment for all students, faculty, and staff, regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic background. We will continue to educate our community about diversity and promote a culture of inclusion and respect, and we continuously seek changes to ensure that we are true to this mission.

We do hope that OPD’s actions today bring a level of peace and that the healing process can begin.

Message Regarding Sukkah at Hillel

Published 10/21/22

Dear Miamians,

We are deeply troubled and saddened to learn about the vandalism of the Sukkah at the Hillel off-campus center at Miami University. While this incident is still being investigated, we would like to reaffirm that Miami University does not tolerate acts of vandalism, violence, or hate.  We are a community committed to inclusion and tolerance.

Many Miami community members, particularly Jewish community members, may be understandably distressed and feel unsafe after learning about this incident. We are committed to every Jewish student, faculty, and staff feeling welcome and included as part of the Miami community. As a university,  Miami is committed to a safe environment for all students, faculty, and staff regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic background. We condemn the vandalism and desecration of the Sukkah, and all acts of vandalism and hate. 

We encourage all members of the Miami community to care for one another and seek support as needed. Resources are available through Student Counseling Service, including the 24/7 H.O.P.E. Line, and drop-in Campus Care visits with a counselor. 

We also invite the Miami community to join Hillel and the Office for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion on October 28, 6-8pm for The Shabbat of Love and Honor at Hillel at Miami. 

Love and Honor,

Gregory P. Crawford, 
President, Miami University 

Cristina Alcalde
Vice President for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion

Elizabeth Reitz Mullenix
Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs