Cornell opens investigation after student rejects internship citing Jewish owners
Cornell University launched an official investigation after a student allegedly refused an internship opportunity specifically because the company’s founders are Jewish. Austin Franco, enrolled at the Ivy League institution, turned down an interview with New York City-based startup VryfID through the Handshake job platform, stating he was “not interested in working for a Jew.” The incident sparked immediate backlash and raised concerns about antisemitism on college campuses. The university’s Office of Civil Rights now handles the case under institutional policies prohibiting discrimination and hate speech.
VryfID operates as a rental verification platform connecting tenants with landlords while authenticating identities to prevent fraud. Co-founders Gabe and Aiden Einhorn reached out to Franco after he applied for a summer internship position through the university’s job board. Aiden Einhorn sent a follow-up message when Franco missed a scheduled call, expressing interest in discussing the company’s mission and emphasizing the importance of college students in the startup’s growth strategy. The response he received shocked both founders and the broader academic community.
Student’s discriminatory response triggers widespread condemnation
Franco’s reply came through Handshake’s messaging system, explicitly rejecting the opportunity based on religious grounds. Gabe Einhorn shared a screenshot of the exchange on social media platform X, prompting immediate attention from university officials and the public. The message violated Handshake’s terms of service, which prohibit discriminatory language and behavior. Cornell confirmed it learned of the incident through the job board platform and immediately referred the matter to its civil rights office.
After facing criticism, Franco attempted to justify his statement by claiming he discovered the founders’ religious background only after applying. He wrote that his experiences with Jewish individuals “have not been pleasant, both in person and online,” while acknowledging some positive interactions. Franco further argued that reactions from the Jewish community proved his point and suggested the initial post wasn’t made in good faith. He compared the situation to hypothetical scenarios involving white or Christian employers, claiming those wouldn’t generate similar controversy.
University condemns antisemitism and launches formal review
Cornell University issued a statement strongly condemning the incident and reaffirming its commitment to combating all forms of hatred. A spokesperson described Franco’s comment as “deeply disturbing” and emphasized the institution’s dedication to maintaining a safe, inclusive environment for all community members. The university’s response included several key points:
- The Office of Civil Rights opened a formal investigation under university policy
- The incident violated Handshake platform terms of service
- Cornell condemns antisemitism and discrimination in the strongest terms
- The university remains committed to fostering respect for every community member
- Appropriate disciplinary action will follow the investigation’s findings
University officials declined to comment on potential sanctions Franco might face, citing privacy regulations and ongoing investigation protocols. However, the civil rights review could result in consequences ranging from mandatory education programs to suspension or expulsion, depending on investigation outcomes and policy violations confirmed.
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Company founders speak out against hate and overgeneralization
Gabe Einhorn addressed the incident publicly, describing Franco as another example of dangerous overgeneralization affecting society. He emphasized that excessive hate currently exists worldwide and that stereotyping any religion or race prevents meaningful connections between people from different backgrounds. Einhorn stressed that individuals across various walks of life can become friends, conduct business together, and build families regardless of religious or ethnic differences. His initial decision to share the screenshot on social media stemmed from witnessing repeated denials that antisemitism still exists in contemporary society.
The VryfID co-founder explained his motivation for making the exchange public was to provide undeniable evidence of antisemitism after encountering people who claimed such discrimination no longer occurred. He wanted to demonstrate a clear example that couldn’t be argued against or dismissed. Einhorn noted the importance of calling out hate speech when encountered, particularly in professional settings where discrimination violates both ethical standards and legal protections. The startup continues operating normally despite the controversy, with the founders expressing hope the incident raises awareness about ongoing prejudice.
Student cancels planned discussion as investigation proceeds
Franco had scheduled an appearance on a social media Space discussion Sunday night but withdrew from the event. He cited the pending Cornell investigation and uncertainty about his enrollment status for the fall semester as reasons for canceling. In his statement, Franco maintained he would continue fighting for what he believes is right, emphasizing his actions weren’t motivated by money, power, or material gain but rather by the cause itself. He asked supporters to understand his decision to postpone public appearances until the university completed its review.
The incident adds to growing concerns about antisemitism on college campuses across the United States. Educational institutions face increasing pressure to address hate speech and discrimination while balancing free speech protections and student safety. Cornell’s swift response reflects institutional recognition of the seriousness of discrimination cases and the need for clear consequences when students violate community standards. The investigation’s outcome may set precedents for how universities handle similar incidents in professional networking contexts beyond traditional campus settings.
VryfID founders declined to pursue legal action but emphasized their commitment to exposing antisemitism wherever it appears. The company continues accepting applications from students at various universities, maintaining its mission to prevent rental fraud through identity verification technology. Cornell’s investigation remains ongoing, with no timeline announced for completion or final determinations regarding potential disciplinary measures against the student involved.
