Columbia President Resigns

Columbia University's president, Nemat "Minouche" Shafik, abruptly resigned after less than a year in office, becoming the third Ivy League leader to step down in recent months amid controversies over campus protests and antisemitism. Shafik's tenure was marked by intense criticism of her handling of pro-Palestinian demonstrations, including decisions to call in police to clear protests, which angered many students and faculty. Her congressional testimony on antisemitism further inflamed tensions on campus. While some praised her actions, others, including major donors, felt she hadn't done enough to protect Jewish students. The resignation highlights the ongoing challenges university leaders face in balancing free speech, student safety, and academic freedom in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war. Dr. Katrina A. Armstrong has been named interim president as Columbia prepares for potential renewed protests in the upcoming fall semester.