Columbia University's President Resigns

Minouche Shafik has resigned as president of Columbia University, effective immediately.

She's stepping down following months of controversy surrounding pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campus and whether she took strong enough action to address anti-Semitism at the school. Back in the spring, protesters created an encampment for weeks at Columbia and were only cleared out by police when they took over an academic building.

“This period has taken a considerable toll on my family, as it has for others in our community. Over the summer, I have been able to reflect and have decided that my moving on at this point would best enable Columbia to traverse the challenges ahead. I am making this announcement now so that new leadership can be in place before the new term begins," Shafik said in a statement.

Shafik had previously faced criticism over her testimony before a House panel in April.

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