Announcements

Announcements

I write to you today recognizing the understandable concerns many of you have about the uncertain social and political environment we may face on campus over the next weeks. I want to assure you that the University’s leadership is working together to prepare for this period and to support our community. Read more.

I am immensely pleased to announce the appointment of Michel Sadelain, MD, PhD, as the inaugural Director of the Columbia Initiative in Cell Engineering and Therapy (CICET). This new University-wide initiative builds on our existing research into cell and gene therapies and aims to drive greater progress in fundamental and translational science at Columbia. Read more. 

I have decided to continue our current restrictions on Morningside access for the time being, while moving thoughtfully and deliberately toward a fully reopened campus, a destination I hope to arrive at in a matter of weeks, not months. Read more

As I write the first of what will be regular communications to you in my capacity as Columbia’s Interim President, I must begin by saying that Columbia would not be what it is without our incredible alumni community. Your dedication to the University and your sincere guidance keep us true to our values. This is always important, but never more so than during challenging times. Read more

The Advisory Committee will be tasked with providing me with a set of recommendations on the proper role of institutional voice in advancing Columbia’s academic mission and its commitment to open inquiry and free expression. Read more. 

As I shared with you several weeks ago, one of my priorities for this year is to strengthen engagement across our University, including the meaningful dialogue of leaders at all levels with the many groups and communities that make up this vibrant institution. Read more. 

Today, I would like to focus on our approach to protests and demonstrations, which is an essential part of how we advance our educational and research mission, safeguard free expression and open debate, and ensure a safe, respectful campus environment for our community. Read more.

Your peers told me that the experience of being a Columbian, of living and learning here with our brilliant scholars in this diverse and incredible city, has transformed the way they see themselves and what they can achieve. Read more. 

Let me be very clear. The painful and distressing incidents of antisemitism recounted in this report are completely unacceptable. They are antithetical to our values and go against the principles of open inquiry, tolerance, and inclusivity that define us. Read more. 

As the first day of classes approaches and we look forward to welcoming all of our students, I am writing now to announce one effort designed to help us realize the full potential of our mission: the Campus Climate Collaborative. The effort has a single goal: to embrace inclusive pluralism while rejecting discrimination and harassment as antithetical to our values and our identity. Read more.

I am writing today to share an update on several steps I am taking to strengthen our leadership structure and enhance collaboration among senior leaders, faculty, and students across the University. So many people are eager to become involved and I am deeply grateful for your willingness to engage in our collective efforts on behalf of Columbia. Read more. 

As the start of the new academic year approaches, I want to express how much I am looking forward to welcoming new and returning students, faculty, and staff to our campuses. I also wanted to take the opportunity to provide further insight into how I am approaching the role of interim president and to share some important updates that involve all of us. Read more.

We are deeply honored to announce today a new $400 million gift from Roy and Diana Vagelos, which will secure Columbia’s leadership in biomedical science research and education and produce a vast array of compelling opportunities for improving society’s health and wellbeing. Read more

A woman in a dark top.

I am very pleased to share with you my appointment of Alexis Abramson as the next Dean of the Columbia Climate School. An expert in sustainable energy technology and advanced energy research with extensive experience in academic administration, Professor Abramson is currently Dean of the Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth. Read more.