Moving Forward Together
Dear SIPA Community,
As we reach the midpoint of our spring term, I have heard from many of you that you are feeling a sense of uncertainty with the current political landscape, policy shifts, and global challenges.
Recent events have had tangible effects on our students, faculty, staff, and alumni. In some cases, the careers of students and alumni in the federal government and related sectors have been disrupted. At SIPA, we recognize this critical moment and remain committed to providing support, thoughtful analysis, debate, and action. We invite you to join a conversation tomorrow (details and link to register below).
We are monitoring the evolving policy landscape and its implications, particularly for those affected by changes in policy, government funding, and public service programs. SIPA leadership and Columbia University administration are actively assessing the situation, ensuring that we are compliant with the law, and advocating for policies aligned with our values. We will keep you informed with relevant guidance as we learn more.
SIPA at this Moment
Globally, we have seen recent waves of democratic discontent and concerns about government responsiveness, alongside generational threats from climate change, international security, and economic inequality.
SIPA has always stood at the intersection of policy, governance, and global affairs. We are a community of thinkers and doers, ready to meet complex challenges with knowledge, integrity, and commitment to the public good. As the world changes, so must our policy approaches. We must be nimble in response, rigorous in research, and steadfast in our mission. SIPA is actively engaging in this moment in various ways:
- Engaging Our Alumni: Last month, over 300 alumni and constituents came together in Washington, DC, to demonstrate how SIPA continues to shape policy solutions even in the most turbulent times — including through convening voices from across the aisle.
- Timely Events & Research:
- SIPA's Saltzman Institute recently partnered with the Political Science Department for a discussion on the political landscape, "What is Happening: Political Science Perspectives on Trump 2.0."
- The Institute of Global Politics (IGP) recently held events addressing the global impact of the economic policies of the second Trump administration and the future of US leadership.
- Join us on Thursday, March 6, for an IGP Rapid Response webinar on what's next for Ukraine. Register here.
- On March 12 the IGP Women's Initiative will host a convening to mark the 30th anniversary of the UN Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, where 189 nations adopted the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action—the most comprehensive agenda for gender equality in history—and recognized that women's rights are human rights. This event will reflect on the transformative impact of the Beijing Conference, feature young activists at the forefront of the women's movement, and offer lessons from world leaders on how to move forward in a time of regression in gender equality. See the full program and register here.
- IGP is busy planning even more. Stay tuned for more Rapid Response content this term along with additional Across the Aisle programming, all featuring IGP Carnegie Distinguished Fellows, SIPA faculty, and IGP-affiliated experts.
- Faculty Expertise: Our faculty continue to provide rigorous research and timely analysis on key issues affecting governance, democracy, and international affairs. Their work informs policymakers and helps shape the broader discourse around these challenges. Read more about recent faculty research and commentary in the media here.
- Public Service Support: The Career Advancement Center is offering targeted resources, career guidance, and events for students and alumni impacted by shifts in the government and policy landscape.
These are just a few of the ways SIPA is rising to meet this moment. We know there is always more we can do, and we welcome your input on how we can further support you during this time.
Resources & Support for Our Community
Our greatest strength lies in our shared commitment to one another. This is a time for us to lean into our values—collaboration, inclusivity, and a belief in the power of policy to drive change. As such, we have created a range of opportunities for engagement, dialogue, and support:
- How SIPA is Meeting the Moment: The Executive Orders — An update for students from SIPA leadership on Columbia's response to the changing landscape.
- Chill with Jill — Join Associate Dean Rodriguez for informal discussions over a sweet treat. This is an opportunity to share your thoughts on how we can continue to strengthen our SIPA community.
- Zoom Drop-By Sessions — Private virtual conversations with Associate Dean Rodriguez for students, staff, and faculty seeking guidance or support.
If there are additional programs or resources you'd like to see, please share your ideas with me, your faculty, or SIPA leadership.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
The challenges before us are significant, but so is our ability to address them. Our faculty, staff, students, and alumni are at the forefront of efforts to strengthen democracy, advance economic opportunity, and promote international cooperation. I am immensely proud of this community.
Thank you for your dedication, resilience, and the many ways you contribute to our shared mission. Your voices matter, your presence matters, and together, we will navigate these times with strength, care, and purpose.
With appreciation,
Keren Yarhi-Milo
Dean, School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)
Adlai E. Stevenson Professor of International Relations
Additional Support Resources:
- Support for International Students:
- ISSO staff will be closely monitoring immigration policy and guidance in the coming months, and will promptly share relevant announcements and updates as they become available. Please continue to use the ISSO website and don't hesitate to reach out at [email protected] with any questions or concerns.
- Review University Life's curated list of services and external resources to help you navigate recent policy changes and their potential impacts.
- Reach out to the International Students and Scholars Office and check out resources they have curated, including travel tips and FAQs.
- Disability Services is available to assist students with campus accessibility concerns and other accommodation needs. Email [email protected] or call 212-854-2388 for assistance.
- The Public Safety team is available at any time of day, every day. We have increased the presence of public safety officers across all of our campuses.
- If you need to request a safety escort—available to members of the Columbia community at any time of day—call 212-854-2797.
- We have resources for reporting behavior that violates our standards.
- You can access same day health, well-being, and counseling offices and resources across the Columbia, Barnard, and Teachers College campuses:
- Columbia Health for Morningside, Manhattanville and Teachers College students (most services provided via telehealth and virtual options; walk-in not available). 24/7 phone support available:
- For urgent medical concerns, call Medical Services at 212-854-7426.
- For urgent mental health concerns, call CPS 212-854-2878.
- For survivor advocacy and intervention, call SVR at 212-854-4357.
- Faculty and staff can find mental health resources here.
- Columbia Health for Morningside, Manhattanville and Teachers College students (most services provided via telehealth and virtual options; walk-in not available). 24/7 phone support available:
- University Life provides additional well-being resources and tips.