Nemat Shafik announces resignation amidst backlash arising from campus protests

Columbia University President, Nemat “Minouche” Shafik, is stepping down following months of protests over the Israel-Hamas war that left the campus in turmoil. An Egyptian-born economist and former high-ranking official at the World Bank, IMF and Bank of England, Shafik announced her resignation in an open letter to the Columbia community.

Shafik’s Difficult Tenure

Shafik has faced mounting pressure for her handling of encampments set up on campus by students protesting the war between Israel and Hamas. In her letter, she referred to her tenure as a period of progress but also one of considerable unrest owing to divergent views within the community. The troubles of this period had, according to Shafik, taken a toll on her as well as others in the community.

Interim President Appointed

The university website lists Katrina Armstrong, a doctor of medicine, as the interim president. Armstrong, who previously held the position of executive vice president for Columbia’s health and biomedical sciences department, and CEO of the university’s medical campus, is set to ensure an orderly transition alongside Shafik.

Criticism over Campus Protests

Leading up to the university-wide commencement set to happen on May 15, Shafik initiated a team of academic leaders to negotiate with representatives from the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” on campus. However, with the failure to reach a resolution, Shafik faced criticism for her handling of the situation, which escalated with the occupation of Hamilton Hall by students and non-affiliated protesters. Subsequent arrests have added fuel to the criticism of Shafik’s handling of the situation.

Campus Arrests Spark Controversy

Faculty criticized Shafik’s decision to involve the police and authorize arrests, leading to a faculty walkout supporting students’ rights to peacefully protest. Despite the criticism and the fact that several university presidents authorized arrests, Shafik, like them, maintained the belief that the protests were essentially peaceful and that external elements were causing the trouble.

Shafik’s Future Plans

Looking ahead, Shafik plans to contribute to a review of the UK government’s approach to international development under the direction of the UK’s Foreign Secretary, aimed at enhancing the system’s capability.

Changes at Columbia University

Following this resignation, the Columbia Board of Trustees acknowledged and “regretfully” accepted Shafik’s decision, while expressing gratitude for her contributions. During this “difficult year,” as they stated, they have praised Shafik’s efforts for the betterment of the community. As the Columbia community prepares for Armstrong’s new leadership in the face of ongoing challenges, it’s expected that there will be significant administrative changes to anticipate in the months to come.