Columbia University has confirmed that Dr. Katrina Armstrong has stepped down from her role as interim president.
Her resignation comes just a week after the university implemented policy changes in response to pressure from the Trump administration. Armstrong had assumed the position in August, following the departure of her predecessor, who faced backlash over the university’s handling of pro-Palestinian protests related to Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
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Former President Donald Trump accused Columbia and other universities of allowing antisemitism and failing to protect Jewish students. His administration threatened to withhold $400 million in federal funding unless institutions addressed these concerns.
In its statement, Columbia University announced that Armstrong would return to her previous role leading the university’s medical center, and Claire Shipman, co-chair of the Board of Trustees and a former journalist, would take over as acting president.
Board Chair David Greenwald praised Armstrong for leading the institution during a period of uncertainty, while Shipman acknowledged the challenges ahead, promising to act swiftly to implement reforms and uphold academic freedom.
Last week, Columbia agreed to new restrictions, including a ban on face coverings during protests and enhanced oversight of academic programs. These changes were part of negotiations to prevent the loss of federal funds, though it remains unclear whether the funding will be restored. Some faculty members have already filed a lawsuit challenging the funding cuts.
Columbia is among 60 universities warned by the Trump administration that financial aid could be revoked if allegations of antisemitism are not addressed.
Earlier this month, Education Secretary Alan Walters confirmed the suspension of federal funding for multiple universities, citing unresolved incidents of violence, intimidation, and antisemitic harassment.
The announcement came as Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia graduate and pro-Palestinian activist, was detained by federal immigration authorities. Khalil, a permanent U.S. resident, is now facing deportation for his involvement in last year’s protests.
Trump has accused Khalil and other activists of supporting Hamas, an organization designated as a terrorist group by the U.S. government.
However, Khalil’s legal team denies these allegations, asserting that their client was exercising his right to free speech and protesting against U.S. support for Israel. They argue that the federal government is attempting to suppress student activism and political dissent.
