Columbia University President Minouche Shafik has announced her resignation after a tumultuous tenure marked by protests and controversies. Shafik cited difficulties in overcoming divergent views within the university community as a key factor in her decision to step down.
One of the major incidents during Shafik's tenure was the student protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, which led to a police intervention on campus. The protests were part of a larger wave of demonstrations seen at college campuses across the country.
In addition to the protests, Shafik faced criticism over the handling of divisions related to the conflict, including the removal of three deans who exchanged disparaging texts during a discussion about Jewish life and antisemitism.
Shafik, who was the first woman to hold the position of president at Columbia University, will be returning to the United Kingdom to lead an effort reviewing the government's approach to international development. She expressed her commitment to fighting global poverty and promoting sustainable development.
Following Shafik's resignation, Katrina Armstrong, the CEO of Columbia University Irving Medical Center, has been appointed as interim president. Armstrong emphasized the importance of strong leadership during challenging times and expressed her dedication to guiding the university through its current challenges.
Shafik's background includes leadership roles at the London School of Economics, the World Bank, and various international organizations. Her appointment as president of Columbia University was praised for her understanding of the role of higher education in addressing global issues.
