Office of the President

President Minouche Shafik

Minouche Shafik became the 20^th president of Columbia University on July 1, 2023. President Shafik is a distinguished economist who for more than three decades has served in senior leadership roles across a range of prominent international and academic institutions.

Her selection as Columbia's president concluded a wide-ranging and intensive search. In a letter to the community, Jonathan Lavine, then chair of the Columbia Board of Trustees, called Shafik “the perfect candidate: a brilliant and able global leader, a community builder, and a preeminent economist who understands the academy and the world beyond it.” About President Minouche Shafik.

A Message From President Shafik

News

A Message from President Minouche Shafik

May 1, 2024

Early Tuesday morning, tensions on our campus rose to new heights when a small group of protestors broke into Hamilton Hall, barricaded themselves inside, and occupied it throughout the day.

Statement from Columbia University President Minouche Shafik

April 29, 2024

A small group of academic leaders has been in constructive dialogue with student organizers to find a path that would result in the dismantling of the encampment and adherence to University policies going forward... Regretfully, we were not able to come to an agreement.

Statement from David Greenwald, Claire Shipman, Minouche Shafik, and Angela Olinto

April 26, 2024

Throughout this very challenging year, we have adhered to a simple goal: to continue our academic mission while keeping campus safe and enforcing our rules fairly.

Morningside Campus Update

April 23, 2024

Nearly four days ago, the West Lawn of the Morningside campus was turned into an encampment by hundreds of student activists.

Statement from Columbia University President Minouche Shafik

April 22, 2024

To deescalate the rancor and give us all a chance to consider next steps, I am announcing that all classes will be held virtually on Monday. During the coming days, a working group of Deans, university administrators and faculty members will try to bring this crisis to a resolution.

Statement from Columbia University President Minouche Shafik

April 18, 2024

This morning, I had to make a decision that I hoped would never be necessary. I have always said that the safety of our community was my top priority and that we needed to preserve an environment where everyone could learn in a supportive context.

More News