NEW YORK, USA: Columbia University President Minouche Shafik resigned on Wednesday following a challenging tenure marked by campus unrest and criticism over the university’s handling of sensitive issues.
Shafik, who became the first woman to lead the prestigious New York institution in 2022, faced intense scrutiny as the campus was engulfed by protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
These protests, which mirrored those seen on college campuses across the country, escalated to the point where police had to intervene, using zip ties and riot shields to remove pro-Palestinian demonstrators occupying a campus building.
In addition to managing the protests, Shafik dealt with internal discord, particularly following the resignation of three deans in July. The deans had been removed after it was revealed they exchanged disparaging messages during a discussion on Jewish life and antisemitism. Shafik condemned the messages as unprofessional and reflective of antisemitic tropes.
Her tenure also included being questioned by Congress, where she faced criticism, particularly from Republicans, over her perceived failure to adequately address antisemitism on campus. In her resignation letter, Shafik acknowledged that the ongoing campus protests and the resulting turmoil had influenced her decision to step down, citing the toll it had taken on her family and the broader university community.
Shafik announced her intention to return to the UK, where she will lead a review on international development for the Foreign Secretary’s office. Columbia’s Board of Trustees has appointed Katrina Armstrong, CEO of Columbia University Irving Medical Center, as interim president, emphasizing her suitability to lead the university during this pivotal time.
Armstrong expressed her honor at being chosen to guide Columbia through its current challenges, underscoring the need for strong leadership in difficult times.
