From sweeping federal funding freezes to student visa revocations and growing backlash against DEI initiatives, higher education in the United States is facing intense political pressure. This week, former President Barack Obama announced his support for Harvard University amid unprecedented grant suspensions, universities ramped up their legal defenses, and students began rethinking where and how they pursue college. In this roundup, we break down the latest developments shaping the future of academia under a rapidly intensifying federal spotlight.
Obama Backs Harvard Amid Federal Funding Freeze
Former President Barack Obama has publicly supported Harvard University after the Trump administration froze $2.2 billion in federal grants. The freeze followed Harvard’s refusal to comply with government demands related to campus protests and faculty diversity. Obama praised Harvard for defending intellectual freedom and urged other institutions to stand firm against federal overreach. Similarly, 876 Yale faculty members have called on their leadership to resist what they view as unlawful federal interventions. Columbia University has partially complied with federal conditions to avoid funding cuts, while Princeton and MIT have expressed concerns but have not received specific demands. The administration has frozen or canceled over $11 billion in funding across seven universities and revoked visas for more than 300 international students. (theguardian.com)
Harvard Researchers Warn of Impact on Scientific Studies
The potential freeze of $2.2 billion in federal research grants to Harvard University could significantly affect scientific research, particularly at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Research areas at risk include cancer, Alzheimer’s, stroke, and HIV studies. While Harvard’s endowment exceeds $50 billion, much of it is restricted and tied up in liquid investments. To mitigate financial strain, Harvard is seeking to borrow $750 million. (apnews.com) (reuters.com)
Lobbying Firms Assist Universities Amid Federal Scrutiny
In response to the Trump administration’s aggressive measures targeting higher education institutions, law and lobbying firm Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP has established a dedicated higher education task force. Led by law experts Marc Lampkin, Evan Corcoran, and Radha Mohan, the task force advises universities on managing investigations, developing strategic communications, and engaging with government officials. The firm’s bipartisan roster includes former officials from both Republican and Democratic camps, enhancing their effectiveness. (politico.com)
Students Reconsider College Choices Amid DEI Program Attacks
Amid increasing political attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, students across the U.S. are rethinking their college decisions and becoming more active in advocacy. A February 2025 directive from the Trump administration mandates the dismantling of DEI programs in educational institutions or risk losing federal funding. As a result, over 50 institutions are under investigation, and nearly 50 anti-DEI bills have been introduced in 20 states. Students report that DEI programs are essential for creating inclusive environments and providing access to education through scholarships and support systems. (teenvogue.com)
