Student Arrested Over Hate Flag at NYU Graduation

A man named Alexander Stepnowsky was taken into custody after a flag bearing two swastikas and a Star of David appeared over a building at New York University during graduation festivities. The flag was flown from the Steinhardt School, a campus building named after a wealthy donor who supported Jewish causes. Stepnowsky, a music‑technology student born in 2002, used his campus ID to access the building and later left with the flag attached to a pole. Police, working with NYU investigators, reviewed badge swipes and video footage that captured the act. The incident happened on May 13, when graduates were celebrating in a block‑party style called Grad Alley. As students and families gathered, calls reached the police about harassment. Officers found the flag, which combined antisemitic symbols with a purple‑and‑white design similar to other university flags. Stepnowsky was identified through the investigation and arrested at 1:30 p. m. on Tuesday in Lower East Side, Connecticut. He was released on his own recognizance and faces charges of hate‑crime burglary, aggravated harassment, and criminal trespassing.

The university spokesperson said the symbols were hateful to all who value community and solidarity. NYU will pursue disciplinary action in addition to criminal proceedings, warning that the most severe penalties may apply. The investigation involved analyzing badge usage and reviewing surveillance to confirm Stepnowsky’s role in placing the flag. The Steinhardt School, funded by a $10 million donation from Michael and Judy Steinhardt, has ties to Jewish philanthropy. The donors also helped establish Birthright Israel and have had facilities named after them in various cultural institutions.

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