Columbia Board Supports President Despite Controversy

The Columbia University Board of Trustees is standing behind President Minouche Shafik amidst anti-Israel protests on campus. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., had called for her resignation, but the Board praised her handling of the situation in a statement released Wednesday.

“The Columbia University Board of Trustees strongly supports President Shafik as she navigates the challenges facing the university,” the statement read. “President Shafik’s approach to resolving conflict and addressing discrimination is commendable.”

Shafik, who assumed her role in July, is under pressure from lawmakers to step down due to the ongoing protests. A Republican delegation visited the campus to support Jewish students and condemn antisemitism. Classes have been moved online for safety reasons, and there have been multiple arrests at both Columbia and New York University.

Johnson, during a press conference at the Low Memorial Library, called on Shafik to resign if she cannot restore order to the chaotic situation on campus. The Board is working with Shafik to resolve the issue and rebuild the community.

Despite the Board’s support, similar circumstances at Harvard led to the resignation of then-President Claudine Gay. Gay stepped down amidst criticism over her handling of antisemitism and plagiarism allegations.