Mike Pompeo Joins Columbia University as Distinguished Fellow Amid Controversy

Image credits: Courtesy of Jared Holt / Joseph Zuloaga

Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has been appointed as a Carnegie Distinguished Fellow at Columbia University’s Institute of Global Politics, a move that has sparked both praise and criticism. The former top diplomat will begin his role in March 2025, engaging with students and faculty on topics related to diplomacy, leadership, and decision-making. Pompeo, who served as secretary of state under former president Donald Trump from 2018 to 2021, said he was looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to the university’s academic discourse and provide a unique voice defending traditional American values and the Founders’ vision for the nation.

Pompeo’s appointment comes at a time when Columbia University has faced intense scrutiny over allegations of antisemitism and political bias on campus, particularly in the aftermath of pro-Palestinian demonstrations and rising concerns about discrimination against Jewish students. According to The Wall Street Journal, Columbia has been criticized by lawmakers and advocacy groups over its handling of antisemitism complaints, with university leaders facing pressure to ensure ideological diversity and a balanced academic environment. Keren Yarhi-Milo, dean of Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs, defended the decision to hire Pompeo, emphasizing the importance of engaging with a broad range of perspectives.

The decision to bring in Pompeo is being viewed by some as a strategic move by Columbia to address growing concerns over political bias on campus. Some pro-Israel advocates have welcomed the move, noting Pompeo’s strong support for Israel during his tenure as secretary of state. He played a key role in the relocation of the US embassy to Jerusalem, declared that Israeli settlements in the West Bank were not a violation of international law, and was a vocal critic of the Iran nuclear deal. Others, particularly student groups and faculty members with progressive political leanings, have criticized Columbia’s decision, citing Pompeo’s foreign policy stances, particularly on Iran and the Middle East, as deeply troubling.

Here are some key points related to Pompeo's appointment: * Pompeo will begin his role in March 2025 * He will engage with students and faculty on topics related to diplomacy, leadership, and decision-making * The appointment has sparked both praise and criticism amid allegations of antisemitism and political bias on campus * Some pro-Israel advocates have welcomed the move, while others have criticized Columbia’s decision * The decision is being viewed as a strategic move by Columbia to address growing concerns over political bias on campus. The extent of Pompeo’s influence at Columbia—and whether the university will face further backlash or praise for the appointment—remains to be seen, with his lectures and engagements with students focusing on foreign policy decision-making, global security, and the challenges of international diplomacy.

As Columbia grapples with controversies over free speech, antisemitism, and academic diversity, Pompeo’s role will likely remain under intense scrutiny. With his tenure set to begin in March, the university will be closely watched to see how it navigates the complex issues surrounding Pompeo's appointment and its impact on the academic environment. The move is seen as an effort to promote diversity of thought and opinion on campus, but it remains to be seen whether it will achieve this goal or exacerbate existing tensions.