A man of the people

As we reported earlier this summer, we’ll have our dear old President Lee Bollinger at least through 2018, according to a statement sent out to all students this morning.

The chair of our board of trustees noted that “Columbia is performing at a level and achieving a standing it has not enjoyed in many years,” citing the undergrad schools’ selectivity, the growth of Manhattanville, PrezBo’s efforts at globalization, and fundraising success. PrezBo, blushing and internally debating how to redecorate his office in Low, responded: “I am privileged every day to witness the extraordinary accomplishments of our faculty, students, alumni and staff.”

Bollinger has been our president for 12 years, and by the time this term expires, his tenure will have been the longest since Nicholas Murray Butler.

Jonathan Schiller, Chair of Columbia University’s Board of Trustees, has announced that President Lee C. Bollinger has accepted the Board’s request that he extend his term for two additional years; he will continue to serve as University President until 2018.

“After more than a decade of Lee Bollinger’s leadership, Columbia is performing at a level and achieving a standing it has not enjoyed in many years, solidifying its place at the top rank of the world’s great universities,” said Mr. Schiller.  “Admission to our undergraduate College is now among the very most selective in the nation.  Columbia’s new campus taking shape in Manhattanville ensures that the University will possess the requisite space and facilities for academic growth well into the 21st Century.  At the same time, President Bollinger has executed a sustainable plan for globalization that is consistent with our values—not branch campuses, but a network of global centers that enrich teaching and research through first-hand experience and engagement around the world.  And he has been able to place the University on a sound, long term financial footing by leading the largest fundraising campaign in Ivy League history.

“In short, Lee Bollinger’s prudent management and inspiring vision have been instrumental in making Columbia University one of the most exciting places in all of higher education.  The University is thriving today on many levels and is well positioned for continued growth here in New York and around the globe.  The Trustees, therefore, feel strongly about the importance of having Lee continue as President.”

President Bollinger responded:

“I am deeply proud to serve as President of Columbia, where I am privileged every day to witness the extraordinary accomplishments of our faculty, students, alumni and staff.  Ours is the ideal urban academic community, committed simultaneously to the discovery of new knowledge, open-minded reflection and constructive action to improve our city, our nation and our ever more global society.”