Katrina Armstrong resigned as Columbia University's interim president and returned to her former role as CEO of Columbia University Irving Medical Center shortly after the university conceded to a series of policy changes under pressure from the Trump administration. In her statement, Armstrong emphasized that her passion for science and healing guides her leadership, suggesting a shift away from the overt politicization that accompanied the funding conditions.

Following contentious policy pressures—including funding cuts imposed by the Trump administration over allegations of insufficient measures against antisemitism—Columbia University's interim president Katrina Armstrong steps down to return to her role as CEO of Columbia University Irving Medical Center. This move signals an effort to refocus on the medical center’s core mission amidst external political pressures.

Columbia University Irving Medical Center, as part of Columbia University, implemented policy changes—including modifications to student disciplinary procedures and academic oversight—in response to demands from the Trump administration. These changes were made as a condition to restore $400 million in federal research funding, raising significant concerns over compromised academic freedom and undue authoritarian influence.

Columbia University Irving Medical Center's leadership issued a public letter uniting the community against recent federal research funding cancellations. The letter emphasizes commitment to advancing patient care, scientific research, and maintaining an inclusive, discrimination-free environment, countering policies that could damage the biomedical research workforce.

In response to a Trump administration ultimatum that threatened to cut federal funding and impose sweeping changes on Columbia University’s academic departments—including impacts on its medical research programs—Columbia University Irving Medical Center, as part of the larger university system, reiterated its commitment to upholding academic freedom, supporting its diverse community, and combating discrimination. A university spokesperson emphasized dedication to the institution’s mission even as external pressure mounted.

On November 13, 2023, Columbia University and Columbia University Irving Medical Center issued a multi-pronged plan to address the legacy of mishandling former gynecologist Robert Hadden’s sexual abuse cases. The announcement included a public apology from University President Minouche Shafik and CUIMC CEO Dr. Katrina Armstrong, the formation of a new Center for Patient Safety Science, an external investigation led by Joan Loughnane, and the creation of a $100 million survivors’ settlement fund along with direct notification to 6,500 former patients.

CUIMC, together with Columbia University, announced a comprehensive plan on November 13, 2023, to address past abuses by former gynecologist Robert Hadden. The plan includes an external investigation led by an experienced legal professional, notifying nearly 6500 former patients of Hadden’s conviction, establishing a $100 million survivors’ settlement fund, and launching new patient safety initiatives accompanied by a public apology.

Following revelations of longstanding failures to protect patients from sexual abuse by an OB-GYN, Columbia University Irving Medical Center announced a $100 million survivors’ settlement fund and the launch of an independent investigation to address systemic issues and improve accountability.

Columbia University Irving Medical Center is criticized for its longstanding failure to adequately address sexual abuse allegations against former gynecologist Dr. Robert Hadden. The institution is accused of ignoring early warnings and not notifying patients, instead opting for large financial settlements to mitigate liability, thereby prioritizing reputation over ethical responsibility.

Columbia University Irving Medical Center allowed Dr. Robert Hadden to continue practicing despite numerous credible allegations of sexual assault. The institution not only failed to adequately investigate and address complaints from vulnerable patients—including marginalized and non-native English speakers—but also engaged in a cover-up by delaying the release of information and offering sanitized communications to affected patients.