Minouche Shafik, the president of Columbia University, has decided to resign following ongoing criticism of her handling of campus protests related to the war in Gaza. In an email to staff and students, Shafik cited the toll the situation has taken on her family and the turmoil within the community as reasons for stepping down. Her resignation, effective immediately, was unexpected given that the fall semester is approaching. Shafik will be taking on a new role with the UK government to chair a review of international development policies.
The announcement of Shafik’s resignation led to mixed reactions, with some pro-Palestinian protesters celebrating near the university and others within the Columbia community voicing support for the change in leadership. The university’s board of trustees expressed disappointment at Shafik’s departure but respected her decision. Katrina Armstrong, the CEO of the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, will serve as the interim president.
Shafik, who took office in July 2023 as the first woman to lead Columbia University, faced challenges during her tenure, including allegations of on-campus antisemitism and tensions surrounding student protests. She emphasized the importance of unity within the community and the need to resist polarization.
Columbia University was at the center of student-led pro-Palestinian protests, which spread to other universities in the US and internationally. Shafik’s resignation marks a significant change in leadership as the university prepares to navigate future challenges.
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