Professor Claims Anti-Semitism Complaints Led to Professional Retaliation

Professor Alex Koganetz, a tenured psychology professor at Duquesne University since 2011, has filed a federal complaint alleging that after he reported instances of anti-Semitism and support for Hamas among students, the university retaliated against him professionally. The complaint, filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and supported by the Brandeis Center, claims that following the October 7th Hamas attack, Koganetz reported student social media posts containing anti-Jewish stereotypes, personal attacks, and justifications for violence against Israelis. He also reported a student who allegedly called him a "racist" after he opposed anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism within the department. The situation escalated in February 2025 when, during a department meeting, a graduate student reportedly defended expressing support for violence against Israeli civilians by groups including Hamas. Koganetz claims the focus then shifted to him, with university officials describing some of his communications as "unprofessional" and "provocative."

Further alleged retaliatory actions include the university creating an alternative pathway for students to fulfill a required course taught by Koganetz, effectively allowing them to bypass his class. He was reportedly told this was to prevent students from feeling pressured due to his views on anti-Semitism. In March, Koganetz was removed from the comprehensive exam committee for a Jewish graduate student, reportedly because his "ideology" was deemed incompatible with the student's work on Jewish identity. Additionally, a display about anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism in academia in his office window was covered by a poster, an action the department chair allegedly confirmed affected only his office.

Koganetz contends these events constitute a pattern of retaliation for his reporting of anti-Semitism, impacting his professional standing. The Brandeis Center is seeking an EEOC investigation into claims of discrimination, hostile work environment, and harassment, which they argue violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Duquesne University, in a statement, emphasized its commitment to seriously investigating claims of discrimination and acting against anti-Semitism and other forms of bias, while also noting it does not comment on ongoing proceedings. Koganetz continues to teach at the university and stated his goal is to ensure that discrimination against Jews is addressed and that those raising concerns about anti-Semitism can do so without fear of reprisal.