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
A Message from the Board of Trustees of Columbia University
To the members of the Columbia community:
The Board of Trustees regretfully accepts Minouche Shafik’s decision to step down as president of the University. Minouche has contributed so much to the Columbia community in an extraordinarily challenging time and has been a wonderful colleague and friend. While we are disappointed to see her leave us, we understand and respect her decision.
Statement from the Board of Trustees
The Columbia University Board of Trustees strongly supports President Shafik as she steers the university through this extraordinarily challenging time. During the search process for this role, President Shafik told us that she would always take a thoughtful approach to resolving conflict, balancing the disparate voices that make up a vibrant campus like Columbia’s, while taking a firm stance against hatred, harassment and discrimination. That's exactly what she's doing now.
Resolution of Appreciation for Lee C. Bollinger
This week marks the end of what will undoubtedly be one of the most consequential periods in the history of Columbia. Lee Bollinger has led this University to astonishing new heights and now leaves it primed for even greater excellence. The Trustees are immensely grateful for his leadership and proud of all that was accomplished during his presidency.
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
An official list and official biographies of University Trustees are available on the Board of Trustees page.
Information regarding the process, background, and form for nominating candidates can be found in the Honors and Prizes section of our website.