Interim Columbia University President Katrina Armstrong has resigned amidst a clash with the Trump administration over federal funding. Board of Trustees chair David J. Greenwald announced her departure, noting that Armstrong had worked tirelessly to promote the university’s interests during a time of uncertainty. Claire Shipman, co-chair of the board, has been appointed as the acting university president while the board completes its search for a permanent replacement. Armstrong is expected to return to lead the university’s Irving Medical Center, where she reportedly had a good relationship with the Department of Education.
The Trump administration’s decision to pull federal funding from Columbia University and pressure Armstrong to make changes on campus likely contributed to her resignation. The university was at the center of anti-Israel protests in 2024, culminating in a highly publicized raid by NYPD officers on Hamilton Hall. Armstrong took over as interim president after former Columbia president Minouche Shafik resigned in August amidst allegations of institutional antisemitism. It is unclear how the leadership change will impact Columbia’s relationship with the government moving forward.
Current acting president Claire Shipman is a renowned author, with four New York Times bestselling books to her name. Her upcoming book, “The Power Code,” focuses on women and power, which is sure to be relevant given the current political climate and Columbia’s turbulent history. Shipman’s appointment as acting president indicates a shift in leadership style and priorities at the university, although it remains to be seen how this change will be received by students, faculty, and the government.
Armstrong’s resignation has left many questions unanswered, including the future direction of Columbia University and its relationship with the Trump administration. The decision to appoint Shipman as acting president suggests a focus on diversity, inclusion, and empowerment, which may help to address some of the issues that led to Armstrong’s departure. As this is a developing story, it is important to stay tuned for updates on how the university plans to move forward and address the challenges it faces.
In closing, Armstrong’s resignation marks the end of a tumultuous period for Columbia University and the beginning of a new chapter under Shipman’s leadership. The intersecting issues of federal funding, campus politics, and leadership style will continue to shape the university’s trajectory in the coming months. Shipman’s background as an author and advocate for women’s empowerment may bring a fresh perspective to the role of university president, but only time will tell how effective she will be in addressing the complex challenges facing Columbia. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to monitor how the university responds to these challenges and navigates its relationship with the government and student body.
