Exclusive: St Andrews University will ask external investigator to look into rector’s actions

St Andrews University will appoint an independent investigator to probe the role and actions of its rector.

After being elected in October, one of the first actions of Stella Maris, whose role is intended to include pastoral support, was to send a four-page email to students about the war in Gaza, accusing Israel of genocide and apartheid.

The Court of St Andrews, which is the university’s governing body, met in special session on Friday in response to concerns from students, staff and alumni about the message and her “subsequent remarks and communications”. Students and others had written to Maris last month  saying she was creating hatred and asking her to apologise or resign.

The court, of which Maris is an ex officio member, said in its statement: “Court recognised the rector’s right to freedom of speech, and also noted that the rector’s message had been welcomed by some students, staff and alumni.”

In recent weeks two Jewish students have told of being physically assaulted in St Andrews on their way back from hearing a speech by the Chief Rabbi; at least one other serious antisemitic incident has been reported to the university. JSoc members speak of feeling isolated and unsupported.

When the JSoc posted a statement saying the rector’s email had been divisive, harmful and not based on fact, Maris, 25, commented that antisemitism was being “weaponised against me” and that attempts to “intimidate” her would not stop her “speaking truth to power”.

The investigation will examine “the compatibility of the rector’s actions and activities with the responsibilities and standards which she agreed to uphold” on appointment, and which are required of a charitable trustee.

St Andrews has confirmed that all relevant material will be considered, including statements, social media posts and correspondence. A spokesperson told Jewish News: “The investigator will have the discretion to seek additional information as they consider necessary.”

The university also confirmed that it intended to publish the outcome of the investigation, which was expected to report its findings to the court in “early 2024”.