Lebanese American Donna Shalala named interim president of NY's New School

Donna Shalala, a Lebanese American politician and academic, has become interim president of New York's prestigious New School.

The research university made the announcement earlier this month, and Shalala began her position on 15 August.

"We are delighted to welcome Dr. Shalala to The New School," said Linda E. Rappaport, chair of the school's board of trustees, according to a statement on the school's website. 

"Dr. Shalala is an academic visionary and trailblazer for women in leadership. Her wide-ranging accomplishments embody The New School's highest values of bold exploration, free inquiry, and creative and innovative spirit. I know I speak for the Board of Trustees in saying how pleased we are to have Dr. Shalala join us." 

Shalala expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the New School in helping develop students who will be able to address important issues with their education.

"I am honoured by this opportunity to serve as the Interim President of this extraordinary institution," said Shalala in the statement. "The New School has a unique and distinguished role in American higher education, developing students who will have an impact on the world and boldly address the most pressing social issues of our time. I am excited to join the university and look forward to what we will accomplish together."

The New School has around 10,000 students and more than 100 programmes. It is known for its arts and humanities research and studies.

Shalala has served as president of the University of Miami, chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and president of Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY). She has also worked as a tenured faculty member of these institutions, as well as Columbia University.

She served in the cabinet of former US President Bill Clinton, making her the first Lebanese-American cabinet member. Most recently, she was a member of the US House of Representatives for Florida’s 27th Congressional District.

The university will begin its search for a permanent president in early autumn. It is unclear from their statement if Shalala will be among the candidates.