Dr Katrina Armstrong, Columbia University’s temporary president, has resigned, one week after the university agreed to significant changes during a fierce struggle with the Trump administration over federal financing.
The government revoked $400 million in funding for Columbia last month and threatened to withhold billions more, accusing the institution of failing to combat antisemitism and safeguard student safety during last year’s Gaza encampment campus protests.
Columbia made huge compromises this week in order to negotiate regaining the funds, receiving heavy criticism for caving in to government pressure and failing to stand firm on academic freedom and free expression.
Claire Shipman, Co-Chair of the Board of Trustees, has been named acting president, effective immediately, while the board seeks for a new president. The university did not explain the cause for the adjustment. I presume this role with an in-depth awareness of the significant obstacles before us and an unwavering resolve to act with urgency, integrity, and work with our faculty to further our mission, apply needed reforms, protect our students, and uphold academic freedom and open inquiry,” Shipman said in a news release.
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