Higher education advocates are bracing for a potential showdown in 2026, as the Trump administration's first year in office was marked by aggressive tactics targeting colleges and universities. The administration's approach, which included funding pauses, demands for policy changes, and investigations, left many institutions feeling vulnerable and under attack. Ray Brescia, a professor at Albany Law School, noted the challenging environment, where institutions must balance the right thing to do (defending academic freedom) with the strategic thing to do (avoiding retaliation).
The year wasn't all smooth sailing for the Trump administration, as they faced legal setbacks in their efforts to reshape higher education. Harvard University, in particular, stood firm against accusations of failing to protect students from antisemitism, rejecting months of pressure from the White House. This resistance sets Harvard apart from other institutions that have tried to curry favor with the administration.
Lynn Pasquerella, president of the American Association of Colleges and Universities, emphasizes the importance of contingency planning and legal expertise for universities. She warns that no one can hide from the administration's scrutiny, and institutions must be prepared for sudden retaliatory shifts. The Education Department, under Secretary Linda McMahon, has expressed a desire to see colleges focus on cost reduction and responsible use of taxpayer funds.
While Harvard has successfully fought to restore federal funding and protect its ability to enroll foreign students, other schools have taken different approaches. Some have complied with White House directives, while others have rejected funding compacts offered by the administration. The year ahead may bring more procedural policy discussions at the Education Department, as experts hope to see a shift away from the administration's quick actions against universities. Jon Fansmith, senior vice president for government relations, suggests that the administration's tactics are not winning over the public and may not lead to the desired outcomes.
The controversy surrounding the Trump administration's approach to higher education continues, leaving institutions and advocates alike to navigate a complex and uncertain landscape. As the year unfolds, the focus on procedural policy discussions and the need for contingency planning will likely remain at the forefront of higher education's agenda.
