In the 1980s, University of Utah students took a stand against apartheid by calling for divestment from companies supporting the oppressive regime in South Africa. Fast forward to November 2023, and a new generation of U students, represented by Mecha, is demanding the university sever ties with Israel due to alleged investments in “war profiteering companies.”
The U’s investment strategy is multi-faceted, with different pools serving various purposes. One recent partnership causing controversy is with 47G, a group associated with the aerospace and defense industry. While the U emphasizes research collaboration and mutual strengths in areas like space exploration and health research, some pointed out that other members of 47G, such as Raytheon and Northrop Grumman, have faced criticism for supplying weapons used in conflicts like the Israel-Hamas war.
Diving into the U’s investment pools reveals a diverse portfolio that includes alternative investments like venture capital and private equity. For instance, the U’s endowment pool has seen returns from investments in oil, gas, and pharmaceuticals, raising ethical considerations among stakeholders.
As debates over divestment and ethical investing continue to gain traction, universities like the U find themselves at the crossroads of financial sustainability and social responsibility. The broader conversation surrounding investments in controversial industries underscores the complexity of navigating modern ethical dilemmas in the realm of higher education and beyond.
