Glasshouse Images / Spencer JonesA Cornell University academic has taken a leave of absence amid a furore over comments he made describing Hamas attacks on Israel as “exhilarating” and “energizing.” Russell Rickford, an associate professor of history, has faced calls to resign from students, faculty, and even members of Congress in the wake of his statements at a pro-Palestine rally in Ithaca on Oct. 15, for which he subsequently apologized. “Professor Russell Rickford has requested and received