Dear members of the Columbia community:
In response to the recent memo from the Office of Management and Budget pausing federal funding, I want to take a moment to reiterate our unwavering commitment to the core mission and principles that define us.
Over the past several months, our leadership team has been actively planning for a variety of scenarios, including this one. In collaboration with key external partners, we have been laying the groundwork to ensure our resilience in the face of uncertainty. We are confident in our collective ability to navigate these challenges with the prudence and foresight that have always characterized this institution.
At the heart of our work are our students, our patients, our faculty, and our research. Each of these groups are fundamental not only to the future of our University but also to the advancement of knowledge and society as a whole. Our commitment to their success remains resolute. We understand that this moment may prompt concern, but it is in times such as these that our strength shines brightest.
Columbia has weathered difficult moments throughout our history, drawing on the resolve and resilience of this community to emerge stronger each time. Today, we stand at another such moment. It is a time for us to come together, to respond thoughtfully, and to demonstrate our ability to adapt with integrity and with our mission at the fore.
This will be a dynamic period, and we will keep you informed as new developments unfold. We will be as transparent as we can in our communications and in our decision-making processes, as we continue to uphold the values that make our University a beacon of excellence.
Thank you for your continued dedication to our shared mission.
Sincerely,
Katrina Armstrong
Interim President, Columbia University in the City of New York
