Gita Manaktala has been named executive director of Columbia University Press, effective September 8. She succeeds Jennifer Crewe, who retired March 31 after 40 years at the publisher and led it for more than a decade.
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| Gita Manaktala (photo: Gretchen Ertl) |
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Prior to joining Columbia, Manaktala spent more than three decades at Massachusetts Institute of Technology Press. Most recently, she served as executive editor-at-large, following her tenure as editorial director.
"Gita is an accomplished publishing leader whose career has been defined by intellectual curiosity, editorial excellence, and a deep commitment to expanding access to knowledge," said Angela V. Olinto, provost and Rutherfurd Professor of Astronomy and Professor of Physics. "Throughout her career, Gita has demonstrated an ability to expand the reach and impact of academic work while upholding the highest standards of intellectual rigor. At a time when universities play an increasingly important role in advancing knowledge and informing public understanding, I am confident that she will build on Columbia University Press's extraordinary legacy and help shape its future with creativity, ambition, and purpose."
Manaktala said: "I am honored to join Columbia University Press and to build upon its distinguished tradition of publishing scholarship that informs, challenges, and inspires. At a time when the world faces complex social, scientific, technological, and political questions, university presses play a vital role in bringing rigorous research into the public conversation. I look forward to working with the Press's talented staff, authors, faculty partners, and supporters to champion exceptional scholarship and bring it to wider audiences around the globe."
Olinto also expressed her gratitude to Crewe, whose "leadership strengthened the Press's reputation as one of the world's leading university presses while expanding its scholarly impact and global reach. We are deeply grateful for her many contributions to the University and the broader publishing community. I would also like to recognize Brad Hebel for his steady leadership as Interim Director of Columbia University Press and for his assistance during this important period of transition."