Trump is laying down the law.
Washington, D.C. — The Trump administration is cracking down on elite universities that fail to protect students’ civil rights. This week, the Department of Education officially notified Columbia University’s accrediting agency that the Ivy League institution is not meeting required standards—a move that could impact both its accreditation and its access to federal taxpayer-funded student aid.
The notice was sent to the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), which oversees academic quality for institutions across the Mid-Atlantic. The Department of Education stated that Columbia’s current standing does not align with expectations for federal financial aid eligibility, especially regarding compliance with federal civil rights law and student safety.
Why This Matters: Universities must maintain accreditation from a Department-recognized body to receive billions in federal funds through Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs. Losing that status can mean a massive loss of funding—and public trust.
Antisemitism on Campus? Trump Administration Responds
This action is part of a broader initiative by President Trump’s Department of Education to confront rising antisemitism on college campuses. Earlier this year, Columbia came under fire for what officials described as a failure to address widespread harassment of Jewish students.
As a result, the administration canceled over $400 million in federal funding to the university. That decision prompted Columbia to announce sweeping changes—including updates to campus protest rules, increased security measures, and a reorganization of its Middle Eastern Studies department.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon emphasized that accrediting bodies must uphold basic values:
“These institutions serve as gatekeepers to federal student aid. If a school tolerates antisemitic behavior, it should not receive taxpayer money—plain and simple.”
University Fallout: Staff Cuts and Budget Strain
In the wake of the federal funding freeze, Columbia has begun slashing staff to manage financial pressure. In May, acting President Claire Shipman confirmed that nearly 180 employees—roughly 20% of those tied to the affected grants—would be let go.
“This is a deeply challenging time,” Shipman stated. “We must preserve financial flexibility and prioritize programs that move us forward.”
A Wake-Up Call for Higher Education
For many Americans—especially conservative taxpayers—this is a turning point. Under President Trump’s leadership, the federal government is demanding accountability from powerful universities that have, for too long, operated with little oversight while drawing heavily on public funds.
This case could set a precedent: Colleges that fail to uphold civil rights and student safety should not expect a blank check from American taxpayers.
