Elite Colleges Resist Federal Proposal for Academic Conformity

The University of Arizona is among seven elite institutions rejecting a Trump administration proposal offering preferential federal funding in return for policy changes. The proposal includes limiting international enrollment and redefining gender policies, among others. Universities emphasize academic freedom as a counterpoint.

The University of Arizona has joined six other prestigious institutions in turning down a Trump administration proposal that would provide preferential federal funding in exchange for abiding by a new set of policies. Citing academic freedom, the university said Monday it would not sign the agreement, which has also been declined by Brown, MIT, the University of Southern California, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Virginia, and Dartmouth.

The controversial proposal aimed to cap international undergraduate enrollment at 15%, ban the use of race and sex in hiring and admissions, and define gender based on biological terms. Schools refusing to comply with these guidelines could risk losing federal benefits, while those adhering would be rewarded. A 10-point memo titled "A Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education" outlines these policies, which seek to overhaul current educational standards and practices in favor of more conservative values.

University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella recognized some elements of the proposal as worthy of consideration but emphasized that principles such as academic freedom and institutional independence are crucial. The university submitted its existing Statement of Principles to the Department of Education to reaffirm its commitment to these values.

(With inputs from agencies.)