Hadden and institutional accountability
Which University leaders knew what, when did they know it, and what consequences followed? Which promises to survivors remain incomplete?
THE CAMPAIGN CASE
Ask the next question.
A campus paper should question the people with the most power—not simply repeat what they say.
Do not stop at an announcement. Ask who made the decision, who objected, what records exist, and who is affected.
Do not let official language become the frame. The Office of Public Affairs is a source—not the narrator.
Do not abandon the story. Committees, investigations, promises, deadlines, and reforms require follow-up.
Do not make vulnerable people pay for access. Explain anonymity decisions and minimize foreseeable harm.
QUESTIONS THAT NEED FOLLOW-THROUGH
What remains unanswered?
Epstein-related admissions and fundraising
What records explain how normal processes were bypassed? What safeguards changed, and who verified that those changes work?
Trustee power
Which decisions are made behind closed doors? How are trustees’ claims tested, conflicts examined, and commitments tracked?
University and federal power
When Columbia and government officials agree on a public line, who checks the evidence, documents the tradeoffs, and hears from the people bearing the costs?
INVESTIGATION AGENDA
Questions worth reporting out.
What is Spec’s financial relationship with the University?
Obtain contracts, correspondence, meeting records, and on-record responses about space and other support.
How does the alumni board shape the newsroom?
Identify governance powers, donor safeguards, recusals, and editorial communications.
Who are Spec’s alumni donors?
Publish meaningful funding disclosures and investigate whether money carries editorial conditions.
How does University-provided space affect independence?
Document the arrangement, its value, the safeguards around it, and any obligations tied to the support.
How are pro-Palestinian views treated?
Compare style guidance, source selection, framing, publication timing, and corrections across viewpoints.
Which stories were delayed or dropped?
Compare timestamps, pitches, internal standards, and contemporaneous reporting by other outlets, including Butler-related events.