Columbia University's Board of Trustees has elected Abigail Black Elbaum (CC'92, BUS'94) as co-chair, succeeding David Greenwald (LAW'83), while Jeh Johnson (LAW'82) will continue in his co-chair role through the end of 2026.
Elbaum has been a trustee since 2016, serving on various committees including Executive, Trusteeship, Health Sciences, and chairing the Physical Assets Committee. Her extensive involvement includes governance, strategic planning, and the medical center, also serving on the Audit and Academic Affairs Committees. She received the Columbia College Young Alumni Achievement Award in 2002 and the John Jay Award in 2015.
Beyond her university roles, Elbaum is co-founder and principal of Ogden CAP Properties, a real estate investment and development firm. She holds board positions with the Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter, the Mount Vernon Triangle Community Improvement District, and the Lincoln Square Business Improvement District, where she is on the executive committee.
Jeh Johnson praised Elbaum, saying, "As a long-serving member of the Board of Trustees, Abby holds the trust, confidence, and respect of every board member." He added that she brings "thoughtful and incisive perspectives, deep institutional knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to Columbia and its mission. I look forward to partnering with her."
Columbia University President Jennifer L. Mnookin also welcomed Elbaum, stating, "I look forward to partnering with Abby, Jeh, and the entire board as we work together to advance our academic mission and ensure the long-term success of this extraordinary institution." Both Johnson and Mnookin thanked outgoing co-chair David Greenwald for his "exceptional leadership" during a "challenging period for the institution," which included multiple presidential transitions and external pressures on higher education.