September 5, 2007
Finkelstein Resigns at DePaul U., After Deal Forestalls Threats to Defy University
Chicago -- Norman G. Finkelstein, the controversial political scientist who was denied tenure at DePaul University last spring, had planned to attempt to return to his office here on the campus this morning, even though he had been placed on administrative leave and his courses had been canceled. He had said that he was willing to be arrested if the university stopped him, and that he was even planning to begin a hunger strike.
None of that was necessary.
Mr. Finkelstein and the university have reached a settlement, and he has resigned.
He spent the morning lecturing to a couple of dozen former students on the quad at DePaul. It was supposed to be the first lecture of one of the courses he was to teach this fall, but instead he spent the time reviewing what had happened between him and the university. Around 10:15 a.m., he was interrupted by a note from his lawyers.
The professor conferred with his lawyers while students marched outside the political-science offices. When he returned, Mr. Finkelstein announced that the two sides had reached a deal that he believes clears his name. Check The Chronicle's Web site for more coverage of this story tomorrow morning. --Paula Wasley