Trending Higher Education News for the Week

Power, Policy & Institutional Priorities

Harvard University Rejects Trump Administration Demands

Harvard has publicly declined federal demands to eliminate DEI programs, revise admissions, and assist with immigration enforcement. In response, the administration froze more than $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts. Harvard argues these demands compromise academic freedom and institutional autonomy which is a sharp contrast to Columbia’s recent compliance.

Key Takeaway: Colleges taking a stand must prepare for financial consequences and define what autonomy means in this moment.

77 Colleges Face Significant Financial Risks From Federal Funding Cuts

New analysis finds that 77 institutions could lose close to $10 billion in federal support annually under proposed policy shifts. Cuts may include NIH research funds and indirect cost reimbursements. Leaders are encouraged to assess vulnerabilities and create contingency plans to preserve operations, research, and student support.

Quick Insight: Financial resilience starts with knowing where you're most exposed and planning before cuts arrive.

Legal Perspectives On DEI Programs Amid Political Scrutiny

An Inside Higher Ed opinion piece argues that despite political pressure, many DEI programs remain legally sound. The author recommends institutions conduct legal reviews of their DEI efforts to confirm compliance while upholding their core diversity values. Staying proactive may reduce risk and reinforce institutional commitments.

Key Action: Review DEI policies through a legal lens. Compliance can coexist with purpose.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon Defends Departmental Cuts

Secretary of Education Linda McMahon has defended major staff and budget reductions, calling them necessary reforms. Critics say the cuts jeopardize civil rights enforcement and national education data infrastructure. The shift signals a continued effort to downsize federal oversight in favor of local and state autonomy.

Quick Insight: With less federal backing, colleges may need to strengthen internal support and advocacy structures.

DHS Formalizes Policy Screening Noncitizens’ Social Media

The Department of Homeland Security has enacted a policy requiring visa and immigration applicants to share social media handles, which will be reviewed for antisemitic content or terrorist affiliations. The policy applies to student visa applicants and permanent resident candidates. Civil liberties groups have raised concerns about free speech and bias.

Key Takeaway: International students and scholars may face increased scrutiny. Campuses should prepare to support and inform them.

Community Colleges Make Difficult Cuts Under Trump

Community colleges, including the Virginia Community College System, are scaling back DEI goals and language under pressure from the Trump administration. Strategic plans have been revised to remove faculty diversity goals and equity terminology. These adjustments may impact support structures for underserved students.

Quick Insight: Retaining inclusive values while complying with policy shifts will be a tightrope for many institutions.