Columbia University has named Jennifer Mnookin, the current Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, as its next president. Mnookin's appointment comes after a challenging period for the Ivy League institution, marked by federal financial penalties and leadership changes. With a strong academic background, including a bachelor's degree from Harvard University, a law degree from Yale Law School, and a Ph.D. in the history and social study of science and technology from MIT, Mnookin brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She has been a prominent figure in higher education, serving as dean of the UCLA School of Law and a professor at the University of Virginia School of Law. Under her leadership at UW-Madison, the university has seen a significant boost in research expenditures, surpassing $1.93 billion in 2024, its highest ranking since 2014. Mnookin has also focused on increasing access to the university through initiatives like Bucky's Pell Pathway and Bucky's Tuition Promise, which have expanded funding opportunities for in-state students. The University of Wisconsin-Madison's President, Jay Rothman, praised Mnookin's leadership, highlighting her ability to bring 'unbounded energy, resilience, and deeply thoughtful leadership' to the position. Rothman also noted her commitment to the university's economic impact, with the institution contributing over $30.8 billion in economic activity annually and graduating thousands of students prepared to lead and innovate. The Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and Wisconsin Educational Communications Board have expressed their gratitude for Mnookin's service and wish her continued success in her new role at Columbia University.
