University Statements and Announcements

Many of you have expressed interest in our ongoing advocacy with lawmakers, and in our joint efforts with other institutions. Both are critically important right now, and I write to offer a few updates and insights after time in Washington earlier this week.

I write to share the wonderful news that I have appointed Dr. Melanie Bernitz as Executive Vice President for University Life and Wellbeing, a role she has been expertly fulfilling on an interim basis for the past year. In this role, Melanie will continue overseeing both University Life and Columbia Health.

As we reflect on the fiscal year ended June 30, and the activity represented in these results, I want to express gratitude for the tremendous focus and commitment required to steward the resources of this institution over the last year.

There is no question that our FY25 financial results reflect continued resilience in our operations and strength in financial management during a turbulent time.

We are very grateful that Dr. Mitchell will take on the role of Dean in a permanent capacity. 

I am so grateful for the immense efforts that were undertaken across our institution this past spring and summer to support our incoming international students. Nearly all of the international students and scholars who chose Columbia have made their way to New York and are now here with us on campus.

It has come to our attention that members of our community are planning an unapproved activity on campus today in the vicinity of Low Library in violation of our pre-notification policies.

Due to the volume of campus activities and to ensure the safety of our community and continuity of our academic mission and other campus activities, temporary changes are in place for guest and alumni access October 6-7, 2025.

With the fall semester fully underway, the Office of Religious Life would like to share with our community the campus events planned for the Jewish holiday of Sukkot. 

Defacing property with hateful language is unacceptable and will not be tolerated at Columbia. 

While the University supports the right of all members of our community to demonstrate and protest consistent with the Rules, it is imperative that demonstrations not infringe on the rights of others to participate in University functions or to engage in counterdemonstrations in an environment that is safe for all members of the community.

World Leaders Forum provides an extraordinary opportunity for our community to engage with leaders on the pressing issues of our time.