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Who’s Who on the Columbia University Board of Trustees & How They Influence Campus Policy
Edited by: Fern Sidman
Columbia University has recently been at the center of a heated controversy due to its handling of the now notorious anti-Israel encampment on campus, raising significant questions about the influence of its board of trustees. According to a recently published report that appeared in the New York Post, critics, including prominent political figures, have said that the board’s composition—dominated by donors and affiliates with strong ties to the Democratic Party—has affected its decision-making processes, particularly in dealing with disruptive and blatantly anti-Semitic campus activities.
The board of trustees at Columbia University, a venerable Ivy League institution, includes several influential figures with deep connections to the Democratic Party. The information provided in the Post report indicated that this includes a billionaire from the notable Pritzker family, a hedge fund manager who has contributed over $4 million to Democratic causes, and high-profile public servants such as President Barack Obama’s former homeland security secretary and a federal judge appointed by President Bill Clinton. These affiliations have brought the board under scrutiny, with critics arguing that political biases are influencing university policies.
According to a detailed examination by The Post, at least six of the 21 trustees have direct ties to the Democratic Party, based on voter registration and political donation records among other public documents. Noted in the Post report was that this significant Democratic representation contrasts with only two trustees registered as Republicans, suggesting an abundantly clear imbalance in political perspectives within the board. Such an imbalance, critics claim, has led to a governance approach that prioritizes political ideology over effective management of university affairs.
The situation has elicited sharp criticism from several Republican leaders. Speaking to the Post, Representative Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) has been vocal in her criticism. She stated, “It’s no surprise that the board of trustees for a university allowing woke left-wing ideology and anti-Semitism to fester is made up of Democrat operatives and donors.” This sentiment has been echoed by New York state GOP chairman Ed Cox, who expressed concerns over the board’s judgment being clouded by their political affiliations. The report in the Post said that Cox also drew parallels between the obvious politicization at Columbia and broader national political dynamics involving President Joe Biden’s administration.
The allegations suggest that the board’s political leanings may be influencing its response to campus issues, particularly the anti-Israel encampment, as per the Post report. This situation has not only disrupted academic activities but has also sparked a broader debate about the role of universities as spaces for free expression versus their duty to maintain order and protect all students’ rights. Indicated in the Post report was that critics have argued that the board’s inability or unwillingness to decisively manage the encampment is symptomatic of a deeper governance issue, where political ideologies override practical and balanced decision-making.
The Columbia controversy also focuses on its president, Minouche Shafik. Amid ongoing anti-Israel protests at the Morningside Heights campus, there is growing pressure on President Shafik to resign for not taking stronger actions to address the situation, the Post reported.
Critics argue that her response has been insufficient to curb the disruptions caused by these protests, leading to calls for her resignation. As was detailed in the Post report, the board of trustees, including co-chairs David Greenwald and Claire Shipman have publicly supported Shafik, although their involvement became more pronounced following their recent testimony at a congressional hearing in Washington, DC.
On January 18, 2023, Columbia University’s board of trustees announced Shafik’s appointment as president of the university. She became president of Columbia University on July 1, 2023. Her inauguration occurred on October 4, 2023.
After the Israel–Hamas conflict intensified in October 2023, and an altercation concerning an Israeli student leading to legal action, Shafik issued a statement saying that if “speech is unlawful or violates University rules, it will not be tolerated”. While some, including NY Rep. Ritchie Torres, and Rep Kathy Manning, said she should have done more to protect Jewish students from anti-Semitic violence on campus; faculty and graduate workers raised concerns over her decision to suspend pro-Hamas student groups such as Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) and Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) from the campus for repeatedly violating University policies relating to on campus events.
In November 2023, Shafik was invited to attend the 2023 United States Congress hearing on anti-Semitism, but declined, citing a scheduling conflict. She later gave testimony before the United States House Committee on Education & the Workforce on April 17, 2024, along with David Greenwald and Claire Shipman. Former presidential advisors and consultants Shailagh Murray, Dana Remus, and Philippe Reines, along with lawyers, political officials, and experts on anti-Semitism prepared Shafik for the hearing for months.
As a result of campus protests and the campus occupation by pro-Hamas demonstrators that began on April 17th, Shafik called on the NYPD to clear an encampment established by protesters near the center of the university’s campus, and police arrested more than 100 students on April 22. The same day, she announced that the university had canceled in-person classes to move to hybrid learning. The demonstrations outside Columbia’s campus included pro-Hamas, anti-Semitic hate speech and threats, resulting in protesters targeting some Jewish students.
Claire Shipman, an alumnus of Columbia University, currently serves as the co-chair of its Board of Trustees, as was previously noted. With a background in journalism, authorship, and advocacy for women’s leadership, Shipman is a prominent figure in both media and educational circles.
Shipman’s journalism career is marked by her extensive experience across several major news networks. She spent 15 years at ABC News, where her reporting ranged from politics and international affairs to pivotal social issues. Prior to her tenure at ABC, Shipman was a White House correspondent for NBC News during the Clinton administration, a role that positioned her at the forefront of national political reporting.
As co-chair of Columbia University’s Board of Trustees, Shipman plays a crucial role in shaping policies and guiding the direction of the university. Her leadership position also places her at the heart of educational governance, where her experiences and perspectives can directly influence the next generation of leaders.
David J. Greenwald, another co-chair of Columbia University’s Board of Trustees is also chairman emeritus of the Fried Frank law firm. His professional journey is marked by significant achievements and service in prominent roles, from heading a major law firm to steering committees and boards in various prestigious institutions.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Greenwald has made significant contributions to academia and the community. As co-chair of the Board of Trustees at Columbia University, he plays a strategic role in guiding policies of the institution of higher learning. He is deeply involved with Columbia University Law School, serving on the Dean’s Council, and contributes his expertise to shaping the future legal minds.
Greenwald also holds positions on the boards of several major nonprofit organizations, including New York Presbyterian Hospital, the Legal Aid Society, Lenox Hill Neighborhood House, and the Lincoln Center Theater.
The Columbia board of trustees’ political leanings have become a point of contention, especially in light of the ongoing campus issues, the Post report said. Notably, Adam Pritzker, a Columbia trustee and a member of the influential Pritzker family, embodies these connections. The Pritzker family has substantial involvement in Democratic politics and philanthropy, with members holding positions such as the Governor of Illinois and former Secretary of Commerce under President Obama.
His family’s engagement in Democratic activism and significant contributions to various social causes have placed him in a notable position to influence both the business and political landscapes.
According to the information provided in the Post report, Pritzker’s cousin, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, is a notable Democratic activist and advocate for bail reform. Another cousin, Jennifer Pritzker is a transgender billionaire and has substantially contributed to universities, medical schools, gender clinics, and nonprofits, promoting gender-affirming medical care and supporting the transgender community. Meanwhile, the Post report also indicated that Penny Pritzker, former Secretary of Commerce under President Obama and now a senior fellow at Harvard Corporation. She has played pivotal roles in both governmental and educational spheres.
These familial ties illustrate a deep-rooted engagement in social issues and Democratic politics, suggesting a shared orientation towards activism and advocacy within the Pritzker family. The report added that this orientation extends to Adam Pritzker himself, who has made substantial contributions to Democratic candidates and causes throughout his career.
Mark Gallogly, an influential figure in finance, politics, and environmental advocacy, embodies the complexities and controversies that often follow high-profile careers bridging diverse sectors. The Post report said that as a vice-chair trustee at Columbia University and a notable Democratic donor, Gallogly’s actions and affiliations paint a detailed picture of a multifaceted individual navigating the intricate worlds of high-stakes investment and political engagement.
Parallel to his financial career, Gallogly has been actively involved in politics, primarily through substantial contributions to the Democratic Party. His financial support includes $775,000 donated in the current election cycle alone, alongside significant contributions to the Biden Action Fund and the Democratic National Committee, according to the information in the Post report. Moreover, he and his wife hosted a high-profile fundraiser for President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign, highlighting his active role in political fundraising and Democratic party activities.
Columbia Trustee Jeh Johnson’s career is marked by his significant contributions to national security and law. A Columbia Law School graduate, Johnson served as the Secretary of Homeland Security under President Barack Obama from 2013 to 2017. The Post reported that prior to this, he was the General Counsel of the Department of Defense from 2009 to 2012, where he played a critical role in shaping U.S. defense policies. Since leaving his political post, Johnson has been an active voice in national discussions on homeland security and cybersecurity, often testifying before Congress to share his insights and expertise.
Another notable Columbia University trustee, Joseph A. Greenaway Jr., was appointed as a federal judge in New Jersey by President Bill Clinton in 1996 at the young age of 38. In 2010, he ascended to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in Newark, New Jersey, following an appointment by President Obama, according to the information in the Post report.
Vice chair Abigail Black Elbaum heads Ogden CAP Properties, a prominent real estate firm, and has been involved in philanthropy, particularly in political spheres. Indicated in the Post report was that her contributions include donations to key Democratic figures such as Hillary Clinton and Al Gore.
As Senior Executive Vice President of Columbia University, Gerald Rosberg is a pivotal figure in the realms of academia, legal practice, and corporate leadership.
Rosberg’s career took a significant turn when he joined The Washington Post Company, where he served for two decades as a senior executive. During his tenure, the company not only dealt with the traditional challenges of a major media conglomerate but also faced the digital transformation that reshaped the industry. His role involved strategic decision-making, long-term planning, and navigating the company through periods of substantial change, including its transition to what is now known as Graham Holdings.
In his current role, Rosberg brings his extensive experience to bear on the university’s strategic initiatives. Working closely with the president and other senior leaders, he focuses on long-term planning and strategic issues, particularly human resources and departmental coordination.
In January 2024, Columbia University welcomed Cas Holloway as its new Chief Operating Officer, a role in which he oversees several critical administrative areas including Facilities and Operations, Human Resources, Columbia University Information Technology, Columbia Health, and Columbia Technology Ventures.
Felice B. Rosan, as the General Counsel of Columbia University, holds a pivotal role where her vast legal expertise significantly impacts the governance and strategic initiatives of one of the leading educational institutions in the world. Rosan’s tenure at Columbia since March 1999 has seen her navigate complex legal terrains, emphasizing university governance, tax-exempt issues, charitable giving, executive compensation, and key developments such as the University’s expansive Manhattanville project.
The board also includes individuals such as Wanda Holland Greene, an educator with four decades of experience, and Keith Goggin, a former New York Stock Exchange market maker and specialist, according to the Post report.
Other members of the Columbia board of trustees include Duchesne Drew, a veteran journalist, and Andrew Barth, the retired chairman of a capital market company. Also on the Columbia board of trustees is Kikka Hanazawa, a social entrep
reneur in the fashion industry.
Also speaking to the Post was Rory Lancman, senior counsel for the Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law. He emphasized the responsibility of the board in these circumstances, stating, “The buck stops with the board of trustees.” Noted in the report was that this sentiment reflects growing dissatisfaction with how the Columbia board has managed the crisis, with critics arguing that the trustees should not deflect responsibility onto the university president alone.
Others have pointed fingers at the university’s board, accusing them of liberal bias, potentially tarnishing the institution’s esteemed reputation.
Former Senator Al D’Amato of New York has been vocal in his criticism of the board, describing its members as “ultra-liberal” and blaming them for the university’s inability to control the situation. “The school is out of control. It’s a disgrace. They’ve destroyed the reputation of a great school,” D’Amato told The Post. His harsh words reflect a broader dissatisfaction among certain alumni and political observers who feel that the university’s governance is too ideologically driven, which they argue has led to ineffective decision-making in a time of crisis.
D’Amato’s frustrations culminated in a call for dramatic changes at the top levels of the university’s leadership. “It’s a horror show,” he told the Post, suggesting that the only solution would be to overhaul the university’s leadership by appointing a new president and clearing out the current board.
Adding to the chorus of disapproval is former Brooklyn Assemblyman Dov Hikind, head of the group “Americans Against Anti-Semitism.” Speaking to the Post, Hikind criticized the board for their prioritization of political protection over taking decisive actions. “The board of trustees at Columbia should stop trying to protect Biden,” Hikind expressed to the Post, urging the board to “Do the freakin’ right thing!”
Amidst the growing criticism, The Post reported that attempts to reach board members for comments were largely unsuccessful, with the majority declining to comment individually or not responding. This lack of direct communication from the board members has added to the frustration of critics, who view the silence as indicative of a governance body that is either unwilling or unable to address the pressing issues facing the campus.
As Columbia University continues to grapple with these challenging issues, the actions taken by its board of trustees will likely be scrutinized not just by the university community but by observers across the political and educational spectrum. The resolution of this crisis could have lasting impacts on the university’s reputation, its governance practices, and potentially, its leadership structure. For now, the university remains a battleground where the complexities of academic governance, political ideology, and social justice converge.