Columbia University Appoints Claire Shipman as Acting President Following Leadership Turmoil

Katrina Armstrong steps down as interim president after Columbia's agreement to Trump administration demands for policy changes tied to federal funding restoration.

Claire Shipman, co-chair of Columbia University's Board of Trustees, has been named acting president, succeeding Katrina Armstrong.
Armstrong's resignation follows the university's controversial decision to meet the Trump administration's demands to restore $400 million in federal funding.
The agreed-upon policy changes include banning face masks during protests, expanding campus police powers, and reviewing the Middle Eastern Studies department.
Faculty and rights advocates have criticized the university's concessions, arguing they undermine academic freedom and free speech.
Columbia remains divided as it navigates ongoing tensions over campus protests, accusations of antisemitism, and federal oversight.