ITHACA, NY (CortacaToday) — Cornell has a new leader.

Michael Kotlikoff began his two-year stint Monday as interim president. Kotlikoff, who most recently served as provost since 2015, tells the Cornell Chronicle he expects a climate of political stress and contention to continue, citing the presidential election and criticisms of higher education.

“But I am confident that Cornellians will meet that moment, through civil, candid and productive discussions about what we do best as a university: what we are, and what we’re not,” Kotlikoff added.

Kotlikoff plans to retire once his temporary term ends. A search is now underway for a new provost. Martha Pollack retired Friday as Cornell’s 14th president.

Michael I. Kotlikoff assumes the role of Cornell’s interim president today following the retirement of Cornell’s 14th president, Martha E. Pollack. He will serve until 2026.https://t.co/gSDK11MQ4G

— Cornell University (@Cornell) July 1, 2024