Fallout at Columbia University widens as head makes shock decision amid controversy
New York: Columbia University’s interim president, Dr Katrina Armstrong, is stepping down from her role following a high-profile dispute with the Trump administration over the school’s handling of anti-Israel protests. Armstrong announced her departure in a letter to staff on Friday, making way for her successor, Claire Shipman, to take over. Shipman has served as co-chair of the board since 2023 and has been a board member since 2013.
Armstrong expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the university through “some of the most difficult moments in its history” and vowed to continue advocating for Columbia’s mission. She will return to lead the university’s Irving Medical Center.
Her resignation comes days after Columbia agreed to policy changes demanded by President Donald Trump, who threatened to withhold $400 million in federal grants. The administration accused the school of failing to protect Jewish students amid widespread pro-Palestinian protests last year, which included violent clashes and reports of Jewish students fearing for their safety.
ALSO READ
Signal Scandal: Shock poll shows Republican voters turn on Donald Trump favorite
Susie Wiles reveals how she told Donald Trump the one thing no one would, and it changed everything
In response, Columbia announced sweeping reforms, including a review of its Middle East studies programs, stricter protest policies, and a ban on face masks used to conceal identities (except for health reasons). The university will also expand its Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies and adopt a new definition of antisemitism.
The controversy intensified with the recent detention of Columbia student Mahmoud Khalil, a key organizer of last year’s protests. The US government is seeking to deport Khalil, alleging he poses “serious foreign policy consequences” due to alleged ties to Hamas — a claim he denies.
“I assume this role with a clear understanding of the serious challenges before us and a steadfast commitment to act with urgency, integrity, and work with our faculty to advance our mission, implement needed reforms, protect our students, and uphold academic freedom and open inquiry. Columbia’s new permanent president, when that individual is selected, will conduct an appropriate review of the university’s leadership team and structure to ensure we are best positioned for the future,” Shipman said.