Northwestern University President Resigns Amid Federal Funding Freeze, Campus Protests

Northwestern University President Michael Schill announced his resignation after a turbulent three-year tenure marked by significant challenges, including a $790 million federal funding freeze imposed by the Trump administration over the university's handling of antisemitism amid pro-Palestinian protests. The Trump administration criticized Northwestern for not adequately protecting Jewish students and framed the protests as antisemitic, while students and supporters argued that advocating for Palestinian rights is not antisemitic. Schill defended the university's approach, including an agreement to dismantle protest encampments without police intervention, prioritizing safety and avoiding escalation. The funding freeze contributed to layoffs and heightened tensions between the university and the federal government, with Schill testifying before Congress on these issues. Critics from conservative groups accused Schill of yielding to protester demands, including controversial faculty hires, which they argued set a dangerous precedent. Schill emphasized the importance of protecting academic freedom and the university's research mission as he steps down, with Northwestern continuing to navigate ongoing federal investigations and financial uncertainties.