Columbia President Minouche Shafik Steps Down Amid Campus Protests
President Shafik Announces Step Down
NEW YORK – Columbia University President, Minouche Shafik announced in a letter that she will step down from her role after months of protests over the university’s stance on the Israel-Hamas war gripping the campus. Shafik, an Egyptian-born economist and a high-ranking official with an impressive portfolio, comprising roles at the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and Bank of England has come under fire for her handling of campus demonstrations against the war.
“This period has taken a considerable toll on my family, as it has for others in our community,” explained Shafik in her letter. “Over the summer, I have been able to reflect and have decided that my moving on at this point would best enable Columbia to traverse the challenges ahead.”
Handling of Protests on the Campus
The pressure for Shafik’s resignation initially mounted after a series of student-led demonstrations across the New York campus which garnered support from numerous colleges across the country. Shafik’s authorization of campus arrests sparked outcry and her testimony to the House Education Committee over the university’s handling of antisemitism attracted criticism.
In her letter, Shafik expressed her distress at the backlash she and others received, stating, “It has been distressing—for the community, for me as president and on a personal level—to find myself, colleagues, and students the subject of threats and abuse.”
Katrina Armstrong Appointed Interim President
Katrina Armstrong, a medical doctor and the current executive vice president for the health and biomedical sciences department at Columbia, has been appointed as the interim president, as listed on the university’s website. Shafik assured in her letter that she would be working with Armstrong to ensure a smooth transition.
Columbia Board of Trustees Responds
In response to Shafik’s decision, the Columbia Board of Trustees expressed regret in a letter that noted Shafik’s contributions to the university community, even amidst a difficult year. The board also endorsed Armstrong, saying this leadership change could provide Columbia with the momentum needed to navigate its current challenges.
Protests Over Israel-Hamas War Divide Campus
Discontent with Shafik’s leadership mainly came from criticism over her handling of protests over the Israel-Hamas war. As university-wide commencement approached, Shafik enlisted a team of academic leaders to engage with representatives from the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” on campus. When the talks failed to make headway and the conflict escalated, Shafik requested the New York Police Department’s (NYPD) assistance to disperse protestors who had occupied a main academic building and an encampment on the university premises.
Call to Action
University faculty members and several lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with Shafik’s actions, calling for stronger leadership that could balance both the freedom to protest and the safety of the students. As Shafik steps down, will the new leadership be able to reconcile the divergent views and quell the storm that has taken over Columbia University? The campus awaits in anticipation.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
