Donna Shalala, the former president of the University of Miami and current interim president at The New School, participated in an exclusive interview with Community Wire on November 30, 2023.
During the interview, Shalala addressed a range of questions prepared by the Community Wire staff and University of Miami journalism graduate students. The topics covered included Henry Kissinger’s legacy, the Hamas and Israeli conflict, the war in Ukraine, student loans, and more.
In the interview, President Shalala underscored her firm belief in the ability of the university’s next generation to overcome current and future societal challenges.
“UM students have consistently advocated for justice and equity,” Shalala said. “They have used both their own organizations and national entities, as being a good citizen involves taking action.”
She emphasizes our generation’s commitment and understanding of their significant role in society.
“I think this generation is just as committed as previous generations if not more,” Shalala said. “I think they understand that they have a role here.”
President Shalala concluded the interview by expressing confidence in the younger generation and offering her support as a resource for those who seek it.
“My aspirations are focused on you,” Shalala said. “I have great confidence in your generation, and I am pleased to pass on whatever influence I have to all of you.”
Shalala served as the president of the University of Miami from 2001 to 2015, concurrently holding a faculty position. Following her tenure at the university, she served as the president of the Clinton Foundation from 2015 to 2017.
As the first Lebanese-American to hold a cabinet position, Shalala later represented Florida’s 27th District in the House of Representatives from 2019 to 2021.
