As Deadline for Trump's Colleges Compact Looms, Schools Signal Dissent
The deadline for a handful of universities to agree to the Trump administration's "Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education" is Monday, but as of Sunday night, six out of nine schools that received the document had indicated they are not planning on signing.
The compact, sent to nine colleges both private and public on Oct. 1, requires schools to bar transgender people from using restrooms or playing in sports that align with their gender identities, freeze tuition for five years, limit international student enrollment, and require standardized tests for admissions, among other things.
MIT was the first school to issue a public statement, saying it "cannot support" the compact's requirements. The university's president, Rafael Reif, stated, "We believe that these provisions are not only unnecessary but also discriminatory."
Other schools that have indicated they will not sign the compact include Harvard University, the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Michigan.
The Trump administration has argued that the compact is necessary to ensure that colleges prioritize academic excellence and provide students with a high-quality education. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon testified on Capitol Hill in May, stating, "We want to make sure that our tax dollars are being used effectively and efficiently."
However, critics argue that the compact's requirements are overly restrictive and would have a negative impact on students from underrepresented groups.
"This is not just about academic excellence; it's about creating an environment where all students can thrive," said Dr. Mary Sue Coleman, president of the Association of American Universities. "We believe that these provisions will have a chilling effect on diversity and inclusion at our institutions."
The compact has also been criticized for its potential impact on international student enrollment, which could lead to a loss of revenue for colleges.
As the deadline approaches, it remains to be seen whether any schools will sign the compact. The Trump administration has not commented on the number of schools that have indicated they will not sign.
Background and Context
The compact is part of the Trump administration's broader effort to reshape higher education policy. In May, Secretary McMahon testified before Congress on a range of issues related to college affordability and academic excellence.
The compact's requirements are seen as a way for colleges to demonstrate their commitment to these priorities in exchange for priority access to federal grants.
Additional Perspectives
Some schools have expressed support for the compact, citing its potential benefits for students. For example, the University of Texas at Austin has stated that it is "reviewing" the compact and may sign on Monday.
However, many experts argue that the compact's requirements are overly broad and would have a negative impact on colleges and students.
"We're concerned about the potential impact on diversity and inclusion, as well as the potential for colleges to cherry-pick which provisions they want to implement," said Dr. Coleman.
Current Status and Next Developments
As of Sunday night, six out of nine schools that received the compact had indicated they will not sign. The deadline is Monday, and it remains to be seen whether any schools will sign the compact in exchange for priority access to federal grants.
*Reporting by Npr.*
