Nemat (Minouche) Shafik: Columbia University's First Female President
Early Life and Career
Nemat Talaat Shafik, known as Minouche Shafik, was born in Alexandria, Egypt, on August 13, 1962. She earned degrees from the American University in Cairo, the London School of Economics, and the University of Oxford.
Shafik began her career as an economist at the World Bank before joining the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2000. She served as the IMF's Deputy Managing Director from 2011 to 2018.
Presidency at Columbia University
Shafik became the 20th president of Columbia University in July 2023, making her the first woman to hold the position. She is a distinguished economist with over three decades of experience in academia, government, and international organizations.
Upon her appointment, Shafik was praised for her leadership skills and commitment to diversity and inclusion. She has made notable contributions to the university's global initiatives and academic programs.
Resignation Amid Protests
Shafik announced her resignation as Columbia University president in 2023, less than a year after taking office. The decision came amid widespread student protests over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the university's alleged links to companies operating in the occupied West Bank.
Shafik said she had "found it impossible to lead the university in the current climate" and that she hoped her resignation would "allow the university to move forward and begin the healing process."
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