Statement By NYU Spokesperson John Beckman

"NYU strongly denounces the choice by a student at the Gallatin School's graduation today-one of over 20 school graduation ceremonies across our campus-to misuse his role as student speaker to express his personal and one-sided political views.

"He lied about the speech he was going to deliver and violated the commitment he made to comply with our rules. The University is withholding his diploma while we pursue disciplinary actions.

"NYU is deeply sorry that the audience was subjected to these remarks and that this moment was stolen by someone who abused a privilege that was conferred upon him."