In a stunning turn of events, Brown University has clinched a deal with the Trump administration to revive over $500 million in federal research funding that had been frozen amid civil rights probes.
Breitbart reported that the agreement, finalized on Wednesday, sees the Rhode Island-based private institution committing to a $50 million payment over a decade to local workforce development groups, alongside strict adherence to specific federal policies.
Before this resolution, the Department of Education had halted significant funding to Brown and initiated investigations into the university’s compliance with anti-discrimination laws.
The pause in funding, totaling more than half a billion dollars, placed immense pressure on the institution. Now, with the deal in place, those open reviews are closed with no findings of wrongdoing.
As part of the settlement, Brown has agreed to several policy shifts that align with conservative priorities, including scrapping Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) frameworks and upholding merit-based admissions. This move is a clear pivot away from what many see as a progressive overreach in higher education.
The university also pledged to enforce Title IX regulations by clearly defining gender categories, protecting single-sex sports and facilities, and refraining from providing certain medical interventions to minors. It’s a stance that will likely cheer those frustrated by the erosion of traditional norms in academia.
Additionally, Brown committed to proactive measures to combat antisemitism on campus, addressing concerns that have simmered in higher education circles for years.
This comes hot on the heels of Columbia University’s own hefty $200 million settlement with the Trump administration over similar issues. Could this signal a broader reckoning for universities nationwide?
Secretary of Education Linda McMahon didn’t hold back in praising the agreement, stating, “The Trump Administration is successfully reversing the decades-long woke-capture of our nation’s higher education institutions.”
Her words paint this as a triumph over what conservatives view as an ideological stranglehold on campuses. But will these changes truly restore balance, or simply trade one bias for another?
President Donald Trump himself chimed in with characteristic flair, declaring, “Woke is officially DEAD at Brown.” While the hyperbole might raise eyebrows, it underscores a firm belief among his base that universities have drifted too far from merit and truth-seeking.
Trump added, “Congratulations to Brown University on the settlement made with the United States Government.” His enthusiasm suggests a personal investment in reshaping academia, though critics might question whether federal overreach is the right tool for such a mission.
Brown President Christina Paxson offered a measured response, saying, “The University’s foremost priority throughout discussions with the government was remaining true to our academic mission.”
Her statement aims to reassure stakeholders that the institution hasn’t sold its soul for funding. Yet, with such sweeping policy changes, some may wonder how much independence truly remains.
Paxson also emphasized, “We stand solidly behind commitments we repeatedly have affirmed to protect all members of our community from harassment and discrimination.” It’s a noble sentiment, but skeptics on the right might ask if past DEI policies ever delivered on that promise, or merely fueled division.
Importantly, the agreement explicitly avoids granting the government any control over Brown’s curriculum or academic speech content. This provision offers a sliver of comfort to those wary of federal meddling in education, even if the broader terms tilt heavily toward administration priorities.
Brown’s commitment to provide data to the federal government for compliance checks raises questions about oversight versus autonomy. While accountability is crucial, conservatives and liberals alike might ponder where the line is drawn between guidance and intrusion.