Columbia University Appoints Jennifer Mnookin as New President Amid Controversy

Columbia University has officially named Jennifer Mnookin as its new president, effective July 1, 2024. Mnookin, who previously served as chancellor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, faces significant opposition due to her handling of protests related to Israel-Palestine issues. This backdrop raises questions about her leadership as Columbia grapples with ongoing tensions over anti-Israel sentiments on campus.

Why It Matters

Mnookin’s appointment comes during a tumultuous period for Columbia University, marked by protests and concerns over academic freedom and campus climate. With a history of contentious protests against Israel at her previous institution, her leadership could impact the university’s reputation and its approach to free expression and diversity on campus.

Key Developments

• New Leadership: Jennifer Mnookin confirmed as Columbia’s new president; she will replace acting head Claire Shipman.
• Prior Controversy: During her tenure at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Mnookin orchestrated police interventions to disperse protests calling for divestment from Israel, leading to arrests.
• Board’s Confidence: Columbia’s Board of Trustees expressed confidence in Mnookin’s ability to lead with clarity and vision.
• Communications with Students: In her initial message to students, Mnookin acknowledged the challenges faced by higher education institutions in recent years.
• Settlement History: Columbia previously settled over $200 million with the Trump administration concerning discrimination against Jewish students, underscoring existing campus tensions.

Full Report

Campus Response and Opposition

The appointment of Mnookin has been met with criticism from groups like CU Apartheid Divest, which labeled her administration as part of a "fascist" regime. This sentiment reflects a broader divide on campus regarding Israel-Palestine discourse and the administration’s approach to handling such protests. In May 2024, Mnookin was reported to have enacted orders that led to police intervention against students associated with leftist groups advocating for Gaza, resulting in the arrest of 34 individuals during a police operation described as a “raid.”

Official Statements

In their announcement, David J. Greenwald and Jeh C. Johnson, co-chairs of the Board of Trustees, praised Mnookin as "a distinguished scholar" who possesses decision-making capabilities and a commitment to the institution’s values. Following her appointment, Mnookin expressed her excitement to lead Columbia, emphasizing its legacy of rigorous scholarship and deep ties to New York City.

Context & Previous Events

Mnookin’s appointment comes in the wake of Minouche Shafik’s resignation amidst controversies surrounding anti-Israel protests at Columbia. The university had also faced scrutiny and legal action over its handling of antisemitism on campus, culminating in a substantial settlement with the Trump administration last summer concerning claims of discrimination against Jewish students. This history frames the challenges Mnookin will soon encounter as she steps into her new role.