Columbia to Pay $750 Million to Survivors of Abusive Gynecologist, One of Largest Settlements in Academia

Columbia University has agreed to a $750 million settlement to resolve claims from 230 women who alleged sexual abuse by former gynecologist Dr. Robert Hadden. The payout ranks among the largest known sexual abuse settlements in higher education. Victims say Columbia ignored repeated red flags about Hadden’s conduct spanning decades. After pleading guilty to limited charges in 2016 without jail time, Hadden faced subsequent federal prosecution and was convicted in 2024. The settlement includes a formal apology and mandatory institutional reforms, such as stricter chaperone policies and revamped complaint protocols. Survivors see it as overdue acknowledgment of profound harm—some had avoided medical care for years out of trauma. While Columbia remains financially strong, the scandal has tarnished its medical center’s reputation, echoing similar revelations at USC and Michigan State. Advocates hope it prompts nationwide reforms in how universities handle sexual misconduct by medical staff.