Megha Vemuri, an Indian-American and president of MIT’s Class of 2025, drew attention after calling Israel’s actions in Gaza “genocide” during her graduation speech. Wearing a red keffiyeh, she criticized MIT’s research ties with the Israeli military and accused the administration of suppressing student protests.
Her remarks received mixed reactions, with some students chanting “Free Palestine” and others staying silent. MIT has not responded publicly.
Born in Alpharetta, Georgia, Vemuri recently graduated in computer science, neuroscience, and linguistics. She was also active in student advocacy and research at MIT.
