Jennifer Mnookin to Become New President of Columbia University
Columbia University has announced that Jennifer Mnookin, currently the Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, will assume the role of its next president. Mnookin has been at the helm of Wisconsin’s flagship university since 2022.
Jay Rothman, President of the Universities of Wisconsin, praised Mnookin’s contributions, noting her “unbounded energy, resilience, and deeply thoughtful leadership” during her tenure. “As she now takes on a new opportunity at another prestigious institution, we extend our substantial gratitude for her service and wish her continued success in the years ahead,” Rothman added.
Mnookin will continue in her current role until the spring commencement, ensuring a smooth transition. In her statement, she reflected on her time at UW-Madison as an honor, expressing pride in their achievements despite challenging times in higher education. She stated, “I am proud of what we have accomplished together, even in a challenging period for higher education, and I know great possibilities lie ahead for the UW–Madison campus community.”
Under Mnookin’s leadership, UW-Madison achieved significant milestones. The university ranks fifth nationwide in research spending and achieved over $1.93 billion in research expenditures in 2024, marking its highest position since 2014, according to the National Science Foundation’s Higher Education Research and Development Survey.
Mnookin also worked on improving access to education through initiatives like Bucky’s Pell Pathway and Bucky’s Tuition Promise, which expanded financial support for in-state students. “Throughout her service, Chancellor Mnookin strengthened UW–Madison’s role as a powerful economic engine for the state,” Rothman commented, highlighting the university’s $30.8 billion contribution to economic activity.
Amy Bogost, Regent President, emphasized Mnookin’s enduring impact, stating, “From the beginning of her tenure, there were many difficult times that would have shaken even the most talented leaders. Yet Chancellor Mnookin was remarkable in how she steered the University of Wisconsin with a steady hand through treacherous times, with the ability to bring the community together. She is a leader that inspires all around her to do their best, deeply committed to our students.”
Before her role at UW-Madison, Mnookin served as the dean at UCLA School of Law for 17 years and was a faculty member at the University of Virginia School of Law. She holds degrees from Harvard, Yale, and MIT.
Mnookin’s appointment to Columbia University follows a challenging period on its campus, marked by leadership changes and financial penalties. More details can be found in Columbia’s news report.
