Colleges Face Federal Funding Cuts Amid Policy Shifts

The Trump administration has taken significant actions against several major American universities, including freezing federal research funding and proposing strict requirements—such as eliminating diversity programs and allowing federal audits—in exchange for continued support. Harvard, backed by its sizable endowment, has led a group of 39 financially resilient institutions in resisting these demands, even after the administration froze over $2 billion in grants and contracts. Columbia University, facing $400 million in funding cuts and federal oversight proposals, has expressed concern over government intervention in its governance and academic independence, while maintaining efforts to address antisemitism and support international students. These developments have heightened anxiety in university communities and prompted legal and lobbying responses, with firms like Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck forming task forces to help schools navigate new federal challenges. The broader context includes increased scrutiny of universities’ policies and campus climates, with free speech and viewpoint diversity at the center of the debate. Universities are emphasizing their commitment to academic freedom and institutional autonomy amid ongoing negotiations and government pressure.