David Holtz

Some news: after four wonderful years at UC Berkeley Haas, I'm heading to Columbia Business School this fall as an assistant professor in the Decision, Risk, and Operations Division. I'm incredibly excited to be joining a division full of brilliant colleagues studying marketplace design, online platforms, business analytics, and data-driven decision-making -- topics that perfectly complement my own research. And I can't wait to re-embrace NYC life – pizza at all hours of the day, grimy music venues in Bushwick, and a robust public transit system! At the same time, I'm also sad to be leaving Berkeley. Haas has been the perfect place to launch my academic career. The brilliant colleagues, engaged students, and collaborative atmosphere here have helped me grow as both a researcher and teacher over the past four years. I'll also deeply miss the Bay Area's amazing nature and weather, as well as its unique blend of innovation and idealism. When I joined Haas, I announced it with a cameo from Chris Diamantopoulos (AKA Silicon Valley's Russ Hanneman). I considered doing the same now—maybe getting Eric Adams, Jalen Brunson or James Murphy for a proper NYC welcome—but the timing feels off. As excited as I am about my new job, this career move comes at a complex time when universities across the US, including Columbia, are navigating challenging tensions between government pressures and academic independence. I believe in the importance of maintaining both institutional autonomy and protecting all members of our academic communities. Despite the challenges at hand, I remain hopeful about Columbia's future and its enduring mission. As Columbia's motto reminds us, "in lumine tuo videbimus lumen" — "In your light we shall see light" — suggesting that through education and collective wisdom, we find illumination and a path forward. I'm excited to join this historic institution during a pivotal moment and to contribute to Columbia's long tradition of creating positive change through knowledge and research. See you in New York! 🗽

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