Columbia University has announced a major leadership change amid ongoing tension with the Trump administration. On Friday, the university confirmed that Katrina Armstrong, the interim president since August 2024, has stepped down from her role.
She will return to her previous position as CEO of Columbia’s Irving Medical Center. Claire Shipman, co-chair of the university’s Board of Trustees, has now taken over as acting president, effective immediately.
What Columbia University Said
The university didn’t give a detailed explanation for Armstrong’s departure. However, in a statement, David Greenwald, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said:
“Dr. Armstrong accepted the role of interim president at a time of great uncertainty for the University and worked tirelessly to promote the interests of our community.”
Claire Shipman will now serve as acting president until a permanent replacement is selected.
Who Is Claire Shipman?
Claire Shipman has served on Columbia’s Board of Trustees since 2013 and has been its co-chair since 2023. She’s stepping in during a particularly challenging time for the university.
In her statement, Shipman said:
“I assume this role with a clear understanding of the serious challenges before us… I am committed to act with urgency, integrity, and work with our faculty to advance our mission, implement needed reforms, protect our students, and uphold academic freedom.”
She also stated that once a new permanent president is in place, they will review the university’s leadership team and structure.
Background: Tensions with the Trump Administration
This leadership change comes just days after Columbia University announced new policies, some of which aligned with demands from the Trump administration.
The administration had pulled $400 million in federal funding, criticizing Columbia for its lack of action against antisemitism on campus.
The university has been under pressure following student protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, with former president Dr. Minouche Shafik resigning after facing strong criticism for her response to those events.
Katrina Armstrong’s Statement
Armstrong said in her farewell message:
“It has been a singular honor to lead Columbia University in this important and challenging time… I believe my best contribution moving forward is at Irving Medical Center.”
She noted that returning to her previous role was always part of the plan and that she is proud to have led the university through one of its most difficult moments.
Columbia University is once again undergoing major change at the top. With Claire Shipman now in charge, and with ongoing political pressure and policy changes, the university’s future leadership will play a critical role in rebuilding trust, ensuring safety, and upholding academic values.
As the university continues to face challenges on multiple fronts, its next permanent president will have the tough job of leading Columbia through a period of transformation and healing.