Following policy changes at Columbia University after Donald Trump’s return to the White House, Katrina Armstrong resigned as interim president, choosing to return to her role as chief executive officer of Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC). In a statement released on the university’s website on Friday, Armstrong expressed pride in leading the institution through a pivotal period while reaffirming her commitment to medical science and patient care.
“My heart is with science, and my passion is with healing,” Armstrong stated. “That is where I can best serve this University and our community moving forward.”
Who is Katrina Armstrong?
Armstrong is a highly respected expert in medical decision-making, cancer prevention, and healthcare quality. She has played a significant role in Columbia’s medical and academic leadership, holding several senior positions. These include the executive vice president for health and biomedical sciences and the Harold and Margaret Hatch Professorship. As CEO of CUIMC, Armstrong oversees multiple institutions, including the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, the School of Nursing, the College of Dental Medicine, and the Mailman School of Public Health.
Armstrong assumed the interim presidency in August 2024 following the resignation of Minouche Shafik. Shafik’s departure came amid controversy regarding the university’s handling of campus protests related to the Israel-Hamas war. Armstrong’s leadership during this turbulent period earned her recognition for steering the university through a complex political and academic landscape.
Columbia’s recent policy shifts
Armstrong’s resignation follows a series of significant policy changes at Columbia, which were enacted as part of negotiations with the Trump administration. These reforms were aimed at securing the potential reinstatement of $400 million in federal funding. Although the university has implemented the changes, US Education Secretary Linda McMahon has yet to confirm whether the funding will be restored.
In recent weeks, the Trump administration has intensified its crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses. Federal immigration authorities have moved to deport several Columbia students involved in demonstrations. Among them, Mahmoud Khalil and Yunseo Chung, both lawful US residents, are now engaged in legal battles to challenge their deportation.
Claire Shipman appointed as acting president
With Armstrong stepping down, Columbia’s board of trustees has appointed journalist and former ABC News correspondent Claire Shipman as acting president. In her first statement as interim leader, Shipman acknowledged the challenges ahead and emphasized her commitment to upholding academic freedom while working with faculty to implement necessary reforms.