What We Know about Columbia University’s Interim President’s Resignation

Columbia University’s interim president, Katrina A. Armstrong, is stepping down and will return to leading the school’s Irving Medical Center. The university did not provide additional information beyond the announcement and Armstrong’s statement. This news comes after Columbia was the epicenter of campus protests last year, with students demanding universities sever ties with the Israeli government in protest of its actions in Gaza. President Trump and his administration also criticized Columbia for allowing antisemitism on campus grounds, withholding $400 million in federal funds until the school agreed to make changes to its policies. Columbia recently announced new measures in response to these demands.

The university announced that Board of Trustees Co-Chair Claire Shipman will serve as acting president following Armstrong’s departure. Board of Trustees Chair David J. Greenwald praised Armstrong for her work as interim president, stating that she worked tirelessly to promote the interests of the Columbia community. Shipman expressed a commitment to addressing the challenges facing the university and working with faculty to advance its mission and implement necessary reforms. Armstrong shared in a statement that she planned to return to her role in running the medical center, expressing pride in working with faculty, students, and alumni during her time as interim president.

The protests at Columbia University last year sparked national attention, with the Trump administration accusing the school of allowing antisemitism on campus. The administration’s decision to withhold federal funds until Columbia made changes to its policies put pressure on the university to respond. The recent announcement of new actions taken by Columbia shows the impact of these demands and the school’s willingness to make changes in response to external pressures. As the story continues to develop, additional information will be provided regarding the leadership transition at Columbia University and any further actions taken by the administration in response to recent events.