St Andrews University Rector Banned From Campus for Seven Years

Stella Maris, the outgoing rector of St Andrews University, has been instructed to remain off campus for seven years, with a requirement to seek permission before attending any public events at university buildings. The decision follows an independent investigation that upheld bullying complaints against her.

Maris, who has called the ban "utter nonsense" and expressed disgust at her treatment, was found to have exercised "poor judgment" in late 2023 when she made comments accusing Israel of "genocidal attacks" in Gaza and described Palestinian suffering as "apartheid." She also condemned the actions of Hamas. The investigation, led by Morag Ross KC, warned that her words could incite anti-Semitic behavior.

This is not the first time Maris has faced scrutiny. She has been removed and reinstated to the university's governing court twice since taking up her post. The recent decision, communicated via a letter on Wednesday, prohibits her from accessing university property until October 2033.

The Fife institution stated that five complaints filed by a senior university official were found to be "consistent with bullying." The university court concluded that Maris's conduct "would not be acceptable in any modern workplace from any employee" and was "sufficient to merit dismissal from Court."

Allegations of intimidation of staff and student representatives at the students' union in July were cited by St Andrews University. The court also ruled that Maris's social media posts violated the university's "ethical standards." She was accused of making "unsubstantiated allegations" against the university's leadership.

Maris disputes these findings, alleging "institutional bullying" and "sustained dehumanising and discriminatory treatment" by individuals she claims are meant to uphold the university's values. She has consistently challenged the fairness and legitimacy of the proceedings.

A spokesperson for St Andrews University confirmed that a "letter of censure" was issued after an independent investigation determined Maris's behavior was "consistent with bullying" toward a staff member. The university noted that allegations made by Maris against the university itself are still under independent inquiry.