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Welcome to the Office of the Secretary of Columbia University.

Established in 1895, the Office of the Secretary has primary responsibility for facilitating the governance of the University. The office directly supports the work of the Board of Trustees, including the staffing of quarterly board meetings, annual board retreats, committee meetings, and orientation for new Trustees. The office also maintains a directory of trustees and updates the University Charters and Statutes.

In addition, the office oversees the process for selecting honorary degree recipients and the winners of the University Medal for Excellence. The Office of the Secretary also undertakes, from time to time, special projects on behalf of the president and the University Trustees.

News and Announcements

May 06, 2025

An Update on the Senate Review Process

Dear members of the Columbia community:

Over the past week, many members of our community have engaged in thoughtful and productive conversations about the University Senate. These discussions, which took place in nearly a dozen listening sessions and included faculty, students, staff, and trustees, made clear the breadth and diversity of perspectives on the University Senate.

May 05, 2025

Jeh Johnson Named Co-Chair of Board of Trustees

Columbia today announced the election of Jeh Johnson (LAW’82) as co-chair of the University’s Board of Trustees, effective April 24, 2025. Johnson will serve alongside David Greenwald (LAW’83), who became co-chair in 2023. 

April 17, 2025

Presidential Search Update

Dear members of the Columbia community:

I am writing with important updates regarding the search for the next President of Columbia University.

Firstly, I am delighted to announce that Board Chair Emeritus Jonathan Lavine and current Trustee Andrew Barth have agreed to serve as Co-Chairs of the Presidential Search Committee.

I Need Help With

Obtaining Blue Seal Letters

Blue Seal Letters enable faculty to receive appropriate courtesies for observation and study while traveling; they are addressed to officials in charge of archives, government agencies, institutes of health, and institutions of learning, libraries, and museums.

To obtain a Blue Seal Letter, send a request via email to [email protected] with the following information:

  • Name
  • Department
  • Tenure Status
  • Travel Dates and Requested Permissions
  • Contact Information

Processing takes approximately one week.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I obtain information on University Trustees?

An official list and official biographies of University Trustees are available on the Board of Trustees page.

Where can I submit a nomination for University Honors and Prizes or the Medal for Excellence?

Information regarding the process, background, and form for nominating candidates can be found in the Honors and Prizes section of our website.

Contact Us

211 Low Library, MC 4324
535 West 116th Street
New York, NY 10027

[email protected]