Washington University Rejects Trump Higher Education Compact After White House Discussions

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) has decided not to sign President Donald Trump's proposed higher education compact, which would tie federal funding to policies such as limiting international student enrollment, freezing tuition, restricting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and requiring institutional neutrality. Chancellor Andrew D. Martin emphasized the university's commitment to academic freedom, access, free expression, and research integrity as reasons for rejecting the compact, despite participating in discussions with the Trump administration to advocate for WashU's values. Faculty leaders at WashU strongly opposed the compact, expressing concerns that ambiguity about the university's stance could undermine confidence within the community. Similarly, the University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod engaged in discussions with federal officials about the compact but did not indicate support; the meeting was described as productive, with federal officials seeking input on the proposal. The compact has faced widespread rejection from major universities and education associations, with critics denouncing it as an attempt to align higher education institutions with the Trump administration's agenda. Federal officials framed the dialogue as a step toward enhancing American leadership in higher education and workforce development, though many institutions remain wary of the compact's implications.