Columbia University has announced that former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be joining its School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) as a fellow. This move aims to bolster the institution’s academic offerings in the realm of diplomacy and international relations. According to SIPA Dean, Merit Janow, “Mike brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will greatly benefit our students”, highlighting the significant expertise he offers after serving at the highest levels of U.S. diplomacy. Pompeo, who held various key roles in government, is expected to engage both inside and outside the classroom, contributing to discussions around modern diplomacy, international security, and U.S. foreign policy. His hiring has generated mixed reactions from the university community, with some students expressing concern over his past policies and the implications of his appointment on Columbia’s reputation. The decision to include Pompeo is part of Columbia’s broader strategy to attract prominent figures who can educate and inspire the next generation of leaders in public affairs. Columbia University has been a site of intense debate over academic freedom and the political ramifications of faculty appointments in recent years. Pompeo’s appointment is seen as a litmus test for how institutions navigate political diversity and contentious figures in academia. Columbia continues to advocate for a wide range of perspectives in its academic environment, considering the complex landscape of global issues today.
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Joins Columbia University’s SIPA Faculty
